Teachers’ views about VET education
A common major problem of VET education, in Europe, is that students drop early their studies. The early abandonment rates have dropped significantly since 2004, but they still remain high, especially in some countries. The reasons that lead to this decision vary. The most common, though, are connected to poor socio-economic situation, to personal and family issues but also in many cases to the educational system itself.
According to a relevant research released on March 2021, the published data from Cedefop, the percentage of students dropping their studies early, between the ages of 18-24, in many EU countries, reached 42% in 2004, while in 2019 it reaches 17%. Indicatively, we mention the early abandonment rates in the years 2004 and 2019 for the following countries:
| Country | 2004 | 2019 |
| Greece | 14% | 4% |
| Netherlands | 14% | 7% |
| Spain | 32% | 17% |
| Finland | 10% | 7% |
| Portugal | 39% | 10% |
The research shows that rates have fallen sharply over the past 15 years, but still remain high in some countries. The EU supports Member States’ efforts to provide their citizens with the best possible education and training, and sets the framework for EU countries to share best practices and mutual learning. Aiming to reduce the rate of early dropping of VET education, the project “Dropping the Baggage” was created.
“Dropping the Baggage” project
The “Dropping the Baggage – Investing in the future” is an Erasmus+ project, focus on developing virtual tools and methods that will help teachers understand how they, with small and simple steps, can help more their students during educational procedure, in terms of developing students’ skills and reducing the risks that lead to early school leaving.
For the above purpose, the project will create tools that will help change students’ (negative) mindset into positive and create a new innovative method called S.C.R.E.A.M! (Strength, Collaboration, Respect, (self) Evaluate, Achieve, Motivate). The aim of this method is to support and empower students and to holistic educational approaches.
Research to VET Teachers
In the current phase of the project, a primary research is being implemented to teachers in VET education.
The aim of the research is to record teachers’ views on issues related to: the educational process, the educational environment, their students, educational approaches etc.
The research is being conducted in Greece, United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal and Netherlands. The results of the research will be the basis for the development of the S.C.R.E.A.M- method and for the training of the trainers on issues related to holistic educational approaches.
Responsible organisation for the research in Greece is p-consulting.gr (project partner).
How can I participate?
If you are a VET teacher and you are interested in participating in our research, follow the link below
Stay tuned for more information about the project and its activities!
