Intermediate level VET and early leaving from education and training in Spain: a territorial approach

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Spain has a combination of high rates of early leaving from Education and Training (ELET), and low graduation and participation in Vocational Training. This article offers a territorial analysis of participation and graduation in Intermediate Vocational Education and Training (IVET) and their links to early drop-outs. METHOD. The methodology used is based on the selection and, where appropriate, on the development of new indicators and the analysis of the relationships between them. Two new indicators (graduation and participation in IVET) have been developed for each of the Spanish Autonomous Communities. A territorial analysis of these indicators has been carried out, as well as of the ELET indicator, in addition an exploratory statistical analysis of the correlation between all indicators has been made. Afterwards, a statistical analysis was carried out in order to classify the Autonomous Communities by applying the K-media method. RESULTS. The Autonomous Communities have been classified according to their position in each of the indictors analysed. A positive correlation has been observed between high participation in IVET and low ELET in men. In turn, huge territorial disparities were observed with the most advantageous situations in some territories in the North and the most disadvantageous ones in the islands and the South. DISCUSSION. The results obtained reveal new questions regarding the causes for territorial inequalities and the possible approaches for developing Intermediate Vocational Education, as well as its contribution in reducing drop-out rates. There is a clear need to improve the current system of indicators and to include educational participation and academic results from Intermediate Vocational Education and training at the heart of policies combating early school leaving.