This study explores a pathway from social origin at adolescence to numeracy acquisition in young adulthood. A variation associated with vocational track attendance and numeracy acquisition between two different traditions of education systems is identified; namely, between education systems of German (Austria and Germany) and English (UK and US)…

Researchers and policy makers agree that the relation between school and work is an important characteristic of vocational education and training (VET) and needs attention. The relation itself poses several challenges for research to be successful and useful for policy makers. In this article, we outline these challenges and answer the following…

In Europe, the Bologna and Copenhagen Processes in higher education (HE) and vocational education and training (VET) are on the agenda, aiming to create a European educational area. Acknowledging important differences between countries, we compare the evolving relationship between HE and VET. We ask whether and how these two distinct…

For many good and well-known reasons, it is now widely accepted that there is a need for more integrated concepts of learning (and studying) in the workplace. This article focuses on the notions and experiences gained from new educational programmes of work-based learning (WBL) in vocational education and training (VET) or--to be…

This article reviews the structural differences in vocational training between East and West Germany; describes a large-scale program establishing suprafirm training centers; notes the shift away from centralism; and considers personnel needs, legal aspects, industry responsibility, attitudinal differences, and European perspectives. (DB)

This article examines differentiation of the German state sector in higher education and the implementation of the vocationally oriented "Fachhochschulen." It then discusses the privately organized "third sector," consequences of German unification, and present tertiary adaptations to new needs and expectations in state and…