Vocational Education

Vocational education, alternatively known as career and technical education, is a form of education that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for a specific trade or occupation. This type of education is often referred to by acronyms such as TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) and TAFE (Technical and Further Education), with TVET being used by organizations like UNESCO.

Forms and Levels of Vocational Education

Vocational education encompasses a variety of learning methods, including formal, non-formal, and informal approaches. It is delivered in both school-based and work-based learning contexts. The aim is to provide specialized techniques and the underlying scientific principles for specific occupations, alongside general skills and values.

Vocational Schools

A vocational school is an educational institution specifically designed to offer vocational education. These schools can exist at both the secondary and post-secondary levels. At the secondary level, vocational education is integrated within the schooling system, preparing young individuals for immediate employment or further specialized training.

Post-Secondary Vocational Education

Post-secondary vocational education is often provided by specialized institutions such as trade schools, technical schools, community colleges, and vocational universities. In the United Kingdom, institutions offering vocational education include colleges of further education.

Global Context

Vocational education varies significantly across different countries. For example:

In the Netherlands, secondary vocational education is known as MBO, and it serves as a bridge to higher education or the workforce.
In Ireland, Vocational Education Committees (VECs) were statutory bodies that managed vocational education at a local level.
In the Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority oversees vocational education and training.
In South Korea, vocational education is viewed as a potential economic driver, fostering industry-relevant skills.
In India, vocational education is oriented towards preparing individuals for industrial or commercial employment.

Bachelor of Vocational Education

Some institutions offer degrees such as the Bachelor of Vocational Education, which focus on applied sciences and are equivalent to degrees in career and technical education. These programs are designed to prepare students for teaching or advanced roles within vocational fields.