SDM512: Theoretical Foundations of Vocational Education and Training

The aim of the Module is the theoretical foundation of Professional Education and Training. Specifically, it involves students' understanding of basic theoretical approaches and framework(s) within which the discourse on contemporary theory and practice in vocational education and training takes place, with an emphasis on issues around which exists a wide consensus and on points of disagreement. The connection of vocational education and training with the labor market is explored along with structural changes in the workplace and how they influence vocational education and training. Emphasis is placed on the role of human and social capital, and on how these concepts are linked to vocational education and training and affect learning and development within the workplace, mainly through practices on the management of the workforce. Students also are anticipated to understand the role of social networks, the value of workplace learning, and value the workplace as an environment of learning and development for employees. The role of learning organizations and issues of efficiency in vocational education and training are described. The concepts 'measurement', 'recognition' and 'accreditation' and their links to vocational training are investigated. The Thematic Unit underlines the importance of vocational education and training in the economic and social development of the EU, and presents the institutional framework of initial and lifelong vocational education and training in Cyprus and Greece.