What With Your Grades? Student Experience of and Motivations for Vocational Training

• In Event: Roundtable Session 68
  In Roundtable Session: Student Perceptions and Motivations in Pursuing Career and Technical Education

Abstract

This paper explores the motivations of students to undertake vocational training courses as well as their experiences of these. Drawing on qualitative data from 40 students attending post compulsory courses at a Further Education college in England, the paper discusses the lack of career guidance these students felt they experienced during their decision making process alongside their sense that their current course has less status and prestige than other, more ‘traditional’ types of education. Given the increasing emphasis on the value and need for good quality vocational education, the paper discuss the implications of this research in terms of policy and practice.

Authors

• Tony Macfadyen, The University of Reading

• Carol Fuller, The University of Reading