Differential factors in Vocational Education and Training itineraries: a longitudinal study

Abstract

The study presented here is part of a national research project, which was continued at the regional level, focusing on the pathways of students at the initial level of Vocational Training (VET) and the intermediate). In this article we present a longitudinal study of the pathways of VET students in the regions of Valencia, which aims to identify the variables that allow us to differentiate between those who have completed their studies and those who are repeating them or have dropped out, considering socio-demographic variables, variables on their previous pathway, as well as the different dimensions of engagement.

The research was conducted by passing questionnaires over three academic years, starting in 2016-2017. The results have been analysed using a Generalised Linear Model for the whole sample and, subsequently, the analysis is also presented for students at both levels, with the aim of being able to explain the differences between the three proposed pathways. The results indicate that those students who feel that they make an effort to do their schoolwork, who enjoy attending school, who value the good relationship they have with their peers, and who see their studies as a value for their professional future, are those who complete their VET studies, although there are some important differences in each of the subsamples. Finally, we highlight as a key factor for the completion of studies among VET students the importance of giving future meaning to the current training process.

Keywords: Vocational Education and Training, longitudinal study, pathways, engagement, early school leaving.