Following its late, but rapid, industrialisation in the 19th century, Germany defined its 'dual' system of vocational education and training (VET). In contrast to workplace-based or school-based models, the dual VET system combines an apprenticeship at the workplace with classroom-based education at a vocational school – hence the 'dual' label. Although the German system of vocational training also offers a wide range of school-based programmes, the dual system has, throughout the 20th century, become the hallmark of German VET. Perhaps the most striking feature of this system, for those unfam
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Following its late, but rapid, industrialisation in the 19th century, Germany defined its 'dual' system of vocational education and training (VET). In contrast to workplace-based or school-based models, the dual VET system combines an apprenticeship at the workplace with classroom-based education at a vocational school – hence the 'dual' label. Although the German system of vocational training also offers a wide range of school-based programmes, the dual system has, throughout the 20th century, become the hallmark of German VET. Perhaps the most striking feature of this system, for those unfamiliar with it, is the engagement of businesses (and employers in general) in the conception and implementation of dual apprenticeships: cooperation between employers, vocational schools, chambers, governmental bodies and labour unions is at the heart of dual vocational education. The dual system seeks to provide the labour market with the skilled workforce it requires and to equip young apprentices with market-relevant skills for their future professional lives. Given that it is employers who are the ultimate users of skills, it is eminently sensible to involve them in both the conception and the implementation of dual training programmes. The purpose of this paper is twofold: on the one hand, it seeks to give an unfamiliar reader an overarching picture of the system, placing an emphasis on the importance of the cooperation between employers, governmental bodies, labour unions and other social partners; on the other hand, it outlines the current challenges of the dual system – issues that often pass unnoticed by outside observers.
Excerpt from publication.
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