Secondary school students' perceptions of, and the factors influencing their decision making in relation to, VET in schools

Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of Vocational Education and Training in Schools – an issue that has recently attracted significant political attention particularly in light of current national skills shortage in Australia. Specifically, it investigates secondary school students' perceptions of VET in Schools [VETiS]. It also explores the factors influencing their decision-making in relation to VETiS – that is, why one might choose, or choose not, to enrol in a VETiS course of study. In view of the findings presented, the paper argues that VET, and more particularly VETiS, is experiencing an "image problem" – one underscored by the need for curriculum design and delivery reform – and suggests that there is much work still to be done on the VET agenda.