Vocational Education Institutions Research Articles

Analysis of the Reorientation of the National Vocational Training Development Program

ILO found that only 59% of graduates from BLK at the level of UPTD and UPTP - which transformed into BPVP, could be absorbed by industries in 2022 due to the mismatch of competencies with the needs of the labor market. Therefore, the reorientation of the National Vocational Training Development Program is urgently needed to create skilled and competent human resources (HR) in line with the needs of industries and the labor markets. The purpose of this study is, to analyze the issues arising in the management of HR in vocational training institutions in creating skilled and competent HR, along the absorption of BLK graduates into companies/industries. This study uses a descriptive analysis method aimed at analyzing the management of HR in BLK. The results of the study indicate that BLK management has not yet adhered to standardized norms, the level of absorption of BLK graduates into companies/industries is still low, and there is a mismatch between the competencies of BLK graduates and the labor market. The implications of the study results for the Ministry of Manpower are: (1) refocusing training targets based on training needs analysis and national development priorities; (2) standardizing training programs considering the typology of BLK and the distribution of vocational training institutions; (3) identifying potential training needs and revitalizing training resources in vocational training institutions; (4) mainstreaming vocational training and apprenticeships by developing funding patterns and partnership programs between the government and the business/industrial sector, also the central and regional governments.

Building aspiring teachers' capabilities, professional and skill development: Auspice to quality teaching practice in technical vocational education and training institutions

AbstractThere is an increasing need to train and retrain personnel that would be saddled with the capabilities, professional and skill developmental requirement that meets societal needs. In this case, there is need for adequately trained personnel that will bridge the gap between societal needs; industrial needs with classroom instructions and vice versa. Therefore, this study examines the influence of building aspiring teachers' capabilities, professional and skill development as an auspice to quality teaching activities in technical vocational education and training institutions. Samples were selected using a multistage sampling technique. The collected data from 945 aspiring teachers was analysed using empirical analysis with AMOS SPSS v.23. Hayes PROCESS macro was used for mediation analyses. The result of the study indicated that self‐efficacy and professional skills with knowledge of instructional delivery and personal capabilities have strong significant linkage. There is also a mediating interaction of attention to relationship on the relationship between constructive teaching and personal capabilities. TVET institutions should ensure continuous professional development by concentrating on the requirements concerning teaching and learning, individual resources and social support for coping with various requirements.

Blended Learning for Aviation School

Blended learning has been identified as a highly promising instructional approach within vocational education institutions. The objective of this study is to examine the disparities in speaking skills learning strategies between traditional (face-to-face) instruction and blended learning. Additionally, the study seeks to ascertain the impact of these learning strategies on students' speaking abilities in both traditional and blended learning environments. The present study employs a quantitative research approach, utilizing an experimental design. The sample for this study comprised 120 cadets, with 24 cadets representing the Medan Aviation Polytechnic and 96 cadets representing the Surabaya Aviation Polytechnic. The results of this study suggest that the mere adoption of technology and the removal of the traditional classroom setting do not suffice in establishing an optimal learning environment for individuals learning a second or foreign language. Nevertheless, there exists a considerable opportunity to amalgamate conventional educational settings with contemporary technological advancements in order to enhance students' academic achievements across various abilities and sub-skills, with a particular emphasis on oral communication proficiency. Based on the results obtained from the study, it is possible to draw the following conclusions: 1) A statistically significant disparity exists in the proficiency of English speaking skills when employing the blended learning approach. 2) A statistically significant discrepancy is observed in the proficiency of English speaking skills for the experimental group, thereby corroborating the efficacy of post-implementation learning strategies.

MEANS OF FORMING DIGITAL COMPETENCE OF FUTURE EDUCATORS

Today’s challenges place high demands on teachers. There is a transition to the information and digital age. The active use of digital technologies in education contributes to the effectiveness of the educational process at all levels and the formation of professional competencies of future specialists. The formation of competences is inextricably linked with the informatization of education.A modern teacher must be able to quickly perceive and process information, be able to work with modern digital and technical means, use the latest online environments in professional activities.Personality development begins in childhood. Teachers-educators face a modern task ‒ the formation and development of such competencies of preschoolers that would contribute to the active socialization of the child.In the light of positive trends and existing problems, the preparation of students of vocational pre-university education institutions for professional activities deserves special attention. The success of the digitization of the economy and the social sphere, as well as the improvement of the quality of human life, depends on the confident and competent application of the digital competences formed by them in professional activities.In general, digital competence is considered as one of the key competences of a modern person for lifelong learning. The concept is new, therefore, both in the domestic and foreign scientific contexts, a unified approach to the definition of digital competence has not yet been formed.The article is devoted to an overview of the phenomena of “digital education”, “digital competence” and “digital literacy”; the article considers the means of forming the digital competence of future specialists of preschool education institutions.

PRINCIPLES OF COUNSELING VOCATIONAL EDUCATION STUDENTS ON YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The relevance of the study is determined by the need to justify certain rules common to all entities responsible for organizing and conducting counselling on youth entrepreneurship in vocational (vocational and technical) education institutions, which will help to unite the efforts of the team and achieve the expected results – to create the right conditions for training self-motivated professionals ready to start and run their own business for the post-war recovery of the Ukrainian economy. The aim of the study is to substantiate the basic principles of counselling students of vocational education in youth entrepreneurship and the patterns of organization of counselling activities. Methods: theoretical analysis of scientific sources, comparison and generalization to identify and substantiate the guidelines necessary for the organization of effective counselling of vocational education students in youth entrepreneurship, to determine the patterns that arise in the process of counselling. Results: the guidelines for organizing counselling on youth entrepreneurship are characterized; the significance of the phenomena of "awareness" and "acceptance" of counselling principles as factors in ensuring the effectiveness of counselling activities is substantiated; the regularities that are revealed in the process of implementing counselling activities are determined. Conclusions: it is justified that in the process of organizing counselling on youth entrepreneurship in vocational education institutions, the primary priority is the awareness of organizers and consultants of the importance of adopting common norms, rules, requirements and determining mechanisms for their strict observance; the basic principles of counselling students of vocational education on youth entrepreneurship (humanism, legality, morality, fair use, systematic and consistent, practical orientation, corporate social responsibility) are highlighted; it is shown that the principles of counselling students of vocational education in youth entrepreneurship are also associated with certain regularities concerning the goals, content, technologies, forms, methods and means of counselling, as well as the system of control and evaluation of the results of counselling activities.

Approaches for sustainable professional skill development for vocational education students in Thailand.

This article presents a research study that aims to explore sustainable approaches for developing professional skills in vocational education students in Thailand. This is the second phase of the research, which utilizes a qualitative research methodology. The key informants in this study are administrators of vocational education institutions, teachers, and students currently enrolled in vocational education institutions in Thailand, totaling 36 participants. The research uses a purposive sampling method and snowball sampling method. Data collection methods include document analysis, in-depth structured interviews, and observation. The results of the interviews are analyzed, and the content analysis is summarized. The research process consists of 4 steps: 1) literature review, 2) data collection, 3) data analysis, and 4) verification and confirmation. The research findings highlight several key considerations, including: 1) factors influencing the development of professional skills among vocational education students, such as curriculum design, support and counseling, practical training in workplaces, interactive learning, problem-solving and analytical thinking skills development, practical learning, and supportive learning environments, 2) approaches for sustainable professional skill development involve employing the appropriate approaches for self-development. The steps include setting clear goals and plans, active learning and training, technology skill development, experiential learning, problem-solving skill development, participation in professional activities, self-reflection, and continuous self-improvement. These approaches aim to enhance the competencies of vocational education students, ensuring quality and efficiency as part of lifelong learning and sustainable development.

Measuring Inclusion in Vocational Education and Training through the Prism of Justice of Education

The highest possible level of inclusion and justice are the primary goals of most contemporary education systems, including vocational education and training. The Index for Inclusion, which was developed two decades ago, defines inclusion on three levels, i.e. policy, culture and practice, and provides a methodological framework for measuring the inclusive orientation of schools. This paper raises the question of whether the selected Index for Inclusion indicators can be used to also measure different dimensions of justice, which is defined as a multidimensional concept. The just redistribution of basic goods is complemented by recognition, representation and relationality. A study with the aim to determine the multidimensionality of the implementation of inclusivity in Vocational Education and Training institutions using statistical analysis was carried out. An online questionnaire was created and completed by 427 education professionals (head teachers, teachers and school counsellors) employed in vocational education and training. The dimensionality of the measured constructs was checked using a set of 28 variables with factor analysis, i.e. the Maximum Likelihood method and Varimax rotation. It was found that the statements that had been formulated on the basis of the Index for Inclusion can also be used to measure different dimensions of justice. The final version of the questionnaire (modified questionnaire), which contains a set of twenty items, adequately measures the redistribution and recognition aspects of justice, whereas the representation and relational aspects have proven to be two-dimensional concepts. A modified questionnaire could be a suitable starting point both for the self-evaluation of schools and a general measurement of inclusion in terms of justice.

Evolution of Accreditation Scheme in the Nigerian Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutions and Strategies for Developing the Scheme

Quality technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is undoubtedly the fulcrum for national technological growth and development. It empowers individuals to be skillful, creative, employable and become responsible citizens. Accreditation has been regarded as an effective quality assurance instrument to assess quality of education including TVET globally. Accreditation ensures that institutions or programmes offered to the public have met the minimum prescribed standards and complied with the agreed minimum requirements. This paper examines the evolution of accreditation schemes especially among TVET institutions in Nigeria. The new development introduced into accreditation by NBTE over time and strategies that should be deployed to make accreditation a significant contributor to national development are examined in this study.

The Mediating Effect of Human Capital on Teaching Quality and Employment Quality of Migrant Workers in Vocational Education Institutions in China

This study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing mediation analysis techniques, a Likert scale questionnaire, and interviews to comprehensively assess employment quality, teaching quality, and human capital. Statistical analysis software was used for data processing, including descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The findings highlight the mediating role of human capital in the relationship between teaching quality and employment quality. Recommendations include vocational education institutions focusing on migrant workers’ career development, enhancing satisfaction with education and teaching, and innovating teaching methods to adapt curricula. Strengthening teacher training and resources, establishing a diverse teaching quality assurance system, and aligning teaching practices with employment needs are proposed strategies to improve overall teaching and learning quality for better employment outcomes. Prioritizing teaching quality enhancements, human capital development, and refining employment services can collectively elevate employment standards for migrant workers, fostering social cohesion and economic progress.

Mathematics Anxiety among Architecture Students at Polytechnic Sultan Idris Shah: A Preliminary Study as An Attempt to Strengthen Mathematics Education in TVET Institution

Mathematics is the basis for numerous technical skills imparted in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutes. As one of the TVET institutions, Polytechnic recognizes the importance of mathematics courses in its curriculum. Engineering, computer science, architecture, and manufacturing courses rely heavily on mathematical principles and concepts. Despite the importance of mathematics, the issue of underperformance in Elementary Mathematics courses among architecture students has been a significant issue for Polytechnic institutions. Some architecture students may require assistance understanding the direct applicability of specific mathematical topics to their field of study. They may perceive mathematics courses as arduous, demanding, intricate, and challenging to succeed in. The presence of negative thoughts significantly led to the development of mathematical anxiety. This anxiety can hinder their ability to solve problems and perform to their full potential in mathematics courses. Therefore, this study investigates the correlation between mathematics anxiety and problem-solving skills among architecture students. The study utilizes a quantitative research design, employing a questionnaire and a problem-solving test. This study used convenience sampling to select 45 Diploma in Architecture students who took Elementary Mathematics in semester one. The data collected is analysed using descriptive and correlation analyses. The study results indicated that mathematics anxiety is present among architecture students. Furthermore, a significant negative correlation was observed between mathematics anxiety and the mathematical problem-solving abilities of architecture students enrolled in elementary mathematics courses. It indicates that their abilities to solve mathematical problems decreases as their mathematics anxiety increases. Consequently, mathematics anxiety is a factor that influences the problem-solving abilities of students. Hence, educators must strive to understand mathematics anxiety and implement innovative pedagogical approaches to overcome their anxiety. Ultimately, the insights gained from the research will contribute to the current body of literature concerning mathematics anxiety and its ramifications for problem-solving within architecture education.

Apprenticeship Reforms in West Africa: An Outcome-Process Evaluation of a Pilot Dual Training Model-Based Apprenticeship Reform Scheme in Ghana

Context: Faced with deep challenges with access to formal education, many West African countries are increasingly taking steps to reform their informal apprenticeship systems to make them a quality skills development alternative for their teeming youth. A review of the literature shows that although different countries in the region are deploying different reform strategies, what is emerging as a dominant reform model is the "dual training model" (DTM), a collaborative arrangement in which the task of training apprentices is shared between informal trainers (master craftspersons, under their respective trade associations) and formal vocational training institutions (FVTIs). This paper presents an outcome-process evaluation of a DTM-based apprenticeship reform programme piloted in Ghana. Methods: Designed as a case study, the paper adopts an interpretivist approach, relying on diverse sources of data, both secondary and primary. Secondary data includes journal articles, attendance registers of participants, memorandums of understanding, relevant media reports, websites, and official reports by all relevant actors. The primary data originated from in-depth interviews with fourteen (14) key informants, as well as from overt and covert observations of respondents. Results: At the outcome level, the paper shows that the programme has largely failed in transferring new skills or in changing dominant poor practices among trainees, foundational objectives of the programme. At the process level, the paper revealed deep flaws in implementation; these are discussed in detail in an attempt to clarify the programme outcomes. Conclusion: The paper concludes that although the dual training model remains a potentially viable reform model in informal apprenticeships, its success ultimately depends on the quality of implementation, which in turn depends on the strength and quality of inter-stakeholder collaboration in programme design and implementation.

Professional education and the needs of modern Russian industry

Aim. To identify the correspondence of the level of professional training of graduates of higher and secondary educational institutions to the needs of modern industry on the example of St. Petersburg enterprises, as well as to assess the dynamics of changes in the basic competencies of new employees coming from the educational environment to the labor collectives.Objectives. To determine the quality of interaction between the educational and industrial spheres on the example of St. Petersburg; to assess the level and dynamics of changes in professional knowledge and skills, social qualities and universal competencies of graduates of St. Petersburg higher and secondary vocational educational institutions.Methods. On the basis of employers’ survey the quality of training of graduates of St. Petersburg higher and secondary vocational educational institutions was assessed by such indicators as the level of professional knowledge and skills, social qualities and universal competences. The results of the monitoring were compared and the dynamics of changes in recent years in the quality of training of young specialists according to the main requirements of employers was revealed.Results. The degree of interaction between industrial structures and the system of professional education in the conditions of increasingly complex economic situation and social transformations is determined. The role of the enterprise as an economic unit is shown, modern labor relations in the production team are characterized. The parameters of employers’ assessment of the quality of training of graduates of St. Petersburg higher and secondary vocational educational institutions are proposed. On the basis of employers’ data, the level and dynamics of changes in professional knowledge and skills, social qualities and universal competencies of graduates of St. Petersburg higher and secondary vocational educational institutions who were hired in 2014-2022 in the St. Petersburg production sphere were assessed. Conclusions. The directions of activation of interaction between the education system and industrial production, professional orientation of young people, formation of the creative component both in the educational process and in the production team have been proposed. The efficiency of measures on formation of progressive labor market on the basis of improvement of quality of preparation of graduates of higher and secondary professional educational institutions employed at enterprises, their quick adaptation in the conditions of production process and labor relations is determined.

Employability skills of maintenance technicians in container ports: Implications for maritime technical and vocational education and training

The study investigated the employability skills of maintenance technicians engaged in container ports in Sri Lanka. The specific objectives were to investigate 1) employability skill gaps between technicians’ evaluations of the level of current possession and the expected level to be possessed for the current job tasks, 2) employability skill gaps between technicians’ evaluations of the expected level of skills for current job tasks and immediate superiors’ evaluation of the importance of the same for current tasks, and 3) maintenance technicians’ exposure to skill development strategies after joining the respective container port terminals. The study was conducted in the two main container ports of Sri Lanka- Colombo and Hambantota. Responses were pooled from two independent sample groups- maintenance technicians and their immediate superiors. Maintenance technicians had graduated from technical and vocational education and training institutions with levels 3 or 4 National Vocational Qualification. Findings identified employability skill preferences of maintenance technicians and their immediate superiors, which led to possible skill gaps. The findings highlight the importance of TVET institutions identifying the preferences of business sectors, they should be prepared to impart employer-preferred skills to their trainees and to bridge any gaps in expectations. This will lead employees to develop realistic expectations of employer preferences. Hence, the findings of the study have implications for technical and vocational education and training institutions, students enrolled in these institutions, employees engaged in container ports, and their employers. Highlights Employability skills are vital to be employed and to remain employed Skill gaps have consequences for job seekers, employers, and training institutes This study investigated employability skills of technicians in container ports

Project-Based Learning (PjBL) Practice in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Indonesia and Malaysia: A Comparative Study

This qualitative-comparative study examined the use of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Indonesia and Malaysia. It observed the use of PjBL as a student-centered learning method to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical skills required for the changing needs of the job market. Empirical research in Indonesia demonstrates that PjBL improves students' collaboration, communication, and interpersonal abilities. The implementation of PjBL in Politeknik Negeri Padang (PNP) Indonesia follows a structured approach categorized into small, medium, and large-scale projects, integrating various subjects and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among students. Similarly, in Malaysia, PjBL supports efforts to restructure TVET to satisfy industrial demands, particularly at institutions such as Kolej Komuniti Selayang (KKSY) and Politeknik Sultan Idris Shah (PSIS). The Malaysian model stresses regular review and weekly assessment of student projects, with the goal of improving students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative skills. However, there are significant variances in the evaluation time and the duration of project application between Indonesia and Malaysia. Overall, the comparative analysis offers insight on the changing pedagogical approaches in TVET schools in Indonesia and Malaysia, highlighting the importance of PjBL in preparing students to face the recent globalized workforce.

Reshaping technical and vocational education and training schools and institutions through digital transformation for sustainable development

Reshaping technical and vocational education and training schools and institutions through digital transformation for sustainable development

MODERN PEDAGOGICAL TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR APPLICATION IN THE WORK OF TEACHERS OF A VOCATIONAL (VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL) EDUCATION INSTITUTION

The article theoretically substantiates and experimentally verified modern pedagogical technologies and their application in the work of teachers of professional (vocational and technical) education institutions. The main goal of an article is to perform an analysis of modern pedagogical technologies and their application in the work of teachers of the institution vocational and technical education. To achieve the goal, theoretical analysis of scientific works, synthesis, comparison, and generalization of approaches to the definition of theoretical aspects of modern pedagogical technologies and their application in the work of teachers of professional (vocational-technical) education institutions were used. It has been established that many learning technologies have been developed today, which prompts theoretical generalization, analysis, classification and selection of optimal methods of their use. The process of using traditional and introducing new (innovative) learning technologies proceeds spontaneously. In the procedure of their selection and implementation in the educational process, there are contradictions between: new goals of education and old ways of presenting and learning knowledge; growing volumes of information that need to be transferred to education seekers and the limited amount of study time; the urgent need for pedagogical innovations in the educational process and the insufficient development of the methodology of using new pedagogical technologies in education. The presence of these contradictions determines the need to study the effectiveness of using innovative pedagogical technologies. As a result of our research, it has been proven that the focus of attention of the pedagogical community is on vocational education institutions, which are designed to provide the labor market with qualified workers who are able to successfully work with the most modern production technologies. For this purpose, the regulatory and legal framework is dynamically updated: legal regulation of the functioning of the vocational education system, all its levels and subsystems, the activities of educational institutions of various types and forms of ownership, and the organization of various forms of education is ensured.

Alignment of vocational education curricula with job requirements in industrial sector: Analysis study

Many technical and vocational education institutions suffer from weak outcomes represented in qualifying their graduates to keep pace with the requirements of the industrial sector, and the negative impact on employment rates. This research has presented a way to link the training programs and curricula with the requirements of the industrial sector for the category of technicians and plant operators. By verifying the announced technical requirements for the jobs of technicians and plant operators in industrial companies with the outputs of courses and training programs in technical and vocational education institutions, as an example of this in the Jubail Technical Institute. In this article, a sample of (50) job advertisements for jobs of technicians and plant operators were used in order to extract the most required important technical skills. For this purpose, several tools and methods were used, such as text mining using the program in https://voyant-tools.org, in addition to Excel. Critical to Quality Tree was also used to clarify the importance of the technical skills required by the industrial sector. In addition, the cause and effect matrix which was used to link and evaluate the impact of training courses on the required technical skills. The article reached specific results, including extracting three of the most important skills required and declared for jobs in the technicians and plant operators and linking them with the training courses in the training program for plant operators. The impact of each training course on the required skills in the labor market, which facilitates the work of developing training courses to keep pace with the continuous improvement in the requirements of the labor markets for skills of the announced jobs.

Evaluation of student internship programs to support the sustainability of vocational education institutions and industrial cooperation programs

The internship program is an annual routine activity in all faculties at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY). This program implements a link and match between educational institutions and industry but has not been evaluated comprehensively. Therefore, conducting program evaluation research using the Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) model is important. The type of research used is program evaluation research with the CIPP model. Data collection techniques in this research used questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The research subjects were UNY students who were grouped into four groups. Data were analyzed descriptively and quantitatively. The results showed that the context aspect of the internship program (goals and objectives) was in accordance with the graduate profile set at UNY. However, the general policy for organizing internships during the pandemic still needs to be developed. The systems and procedures of the academic community support the internship program, but there is still a need to improve cooperation documents and internship information systems for all faculties. The implementation of the internship program is in accordance with the activity plan set at UNY, but SIPKL needs to be developed to equalize the perception of field supervisors. The product of the internship program is in accordance with the goals and objectives set at UNY, but some students (34.16%) still have not received a job offer from the internship site. The results of this research can contribute to developing a quality-oriented internship program, which will then positively impact the cooperation relationship between universities and industry. Thus, a good working relationship will benefit both parties and potentially develop cooperation in other programs.

Student Youth in the Space of Historical Practices and Narratives (Regional Dimension)

Introduction. The importance of exploring the specificity of shaping the historical memory among young people is due to the fact that it is this age that is crucial in the formation of worldview attitudes and civic identity. In modern geopolitical conditions, when the falsification of historical events of Russia's past takes place, the analysis of the factors of studentsʼ involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives that influence the formation of their historical memory is especially important. The aim of the article is to measure the level of students' involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives on the basis of quantitative and qualitative sociological research data; to identify the factors influencing the historical memory of student youth in the Republic of Mordovia. Materials and Methods. The empirical basis of the study constituted the findings derived from 20 semi-structured interviews with young people between 18 and 25 years old, as well as the results of an online survey held among university and secondary educational institutions learners in the Republic of Mordovia (n = 700). Multistage composite sampling. Results. Based on cluster analysis, three groups of student youth were identified according to the level of involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives. The relationship between belonging to a specific cluster and socio-demographic factors is presented: gender, level of education and place of residence turned out to be significant. Among the factors influencing the level of involvement in historical practices and narratives are cognitive interest in history, family memories, and active use of media. It has been established that the significance of these factors in shaping the historical memory of young people may vary. The most significant factors are historical education (at secondary school, vocational education institution, university), the role of teacher as a mediator of historical knowledge, as well as the continuity and depth of family memory. Discussion and Conclusion. The results of the study determine the factors of student youth involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives and supplement the sociological understanding of the processes of constructing the historical memory. The materials of the article may be of interest to specialists engaged in patriotic education, historical education of youth, practitioners involved in the development of youth policy.

Challenges and Risk Factors of Early Leaving from IVET: Perceptions of Students and Schools´ Staff

A concern across many vocational education systems is the high dropout rate from their programs. This problem is likely to be exacerbated at time of low unemployment rates when employers are less demanding about the certification of skills at the time of employment. This qualitative study examines the factors associated with students leaving early from Initial Vocational Education and Training (IVET) institutions in Estonia. The study analyses the challenges and potential risk factors of IVET early leaving from both the students and staff members points of view. The research participants were 20 Estonian IVET students and 12 staff members from various vocational schools. The study highlights the complex interplay of students’ challenges and emphasises the importance of addressing them to promote retention and success in vocational education and training programmes. The study employs the Self-Determination Theory, more specifically, the conceptual frame of basic psychological needs to interpret the data. The results of the research indicate that students at risk are mainly shaped by their primary school experience prior to vocational school, with teachers and peers as the main influencers.