The dual model of vocational training – a promising practice for transformative TVET?

In Austria, the dual model of vocational training constitutes a significant part of the national TVET system. It refers to the traditional form of apprenticeship of simultaneous company-based training and formal education in... [ view full abstract ]

In Austria, the dual model of vocational training constitutes a significant part of the national TVET system. It refers to the traditional form of apprenticeship of simultaneous company-based training and formal education in vocational schools, whereby usually 80% of training takes place in the company.
It is assumed that low youth unemployment rates in the German speaking countries are, at least partially, due to the dual model of vocational training. Consequently, international interest in this model has grown substantially. In Austria, government and private business alike have started to consider exporting the dual model. Austrian development cooperation has opened up a funding scheme for companies engaging in TVET activities in developing and transition countries including transfer of the dual model.
Can the dual model offer any promising pathways to a transformative vision of TVET? As a traditional form of work-based learning with high social status it might be an effective practice to strengthen the relevance, poverty-impact and overall appreciation of TVET. At least this is assumed by its advocates.
My paper is based on ongoing research into current transfer activities of the dual model from Austria to developing countries. It attempts to analyse whether and how these activities match the vision of transformative TVET in a social justice approach. It then reflects on possible consequences of transferring a model, which is rooted in a specific historically determined form of organization of labour, to substantially different social contexts.