Differences in Perception Matter: How Differences in Perception of Trainees and Trainers Affect Vocational Education and Training Drop-Out

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Abstract

Considering vocational education and training (VET), it remains controversial as to how VET quality should be measured, from whose perspective, and how it affects dropout. Empirical studies mostly target the perceptions of trainees or trainers in isolation. In this study, a bilateral approach is presented, using differences in perception between both parties. An online survey was conducted involving 311 commercial trainees and their trainers. Differences between trainees and their corresponding trainers were calculated and the resulting 15 input- and process-quality “differences scores” were used as independent variables in regression analyses. The results show that differences in perception of quality have a significant effect on drop-out intentions and show a higher predictive power than the conventional method of unilateral trainee perceptions.

Authors

• Maximilian Krötz, University of Mannheim

• Viola Deutscher, University of Mannheim