Abstract:

Developing the attractiveness of vocational education (VE) and the quality of vocational education and training (VET) system is dependent on link between VE and higher education (HE) as well as on link between VET and working life.

The presented project is in line with the Lisbon strategy, which provides promotion and quality of VET. European countries are facing increasing of low-skilled workers and an ageing population. Activities in educational practices will contribute to the preparation of people today and ensure Europe's competitiveness in the future, as well as innovation. The project was built upon the European strategy, framework and tools that will be developed and maintained in several European countries.

Among others, the project focuses on the following scientific and research objectives:
• What's new in human perception of VET systems and how they see the future job opportunities, career development and mobility?
• How effective and successful are advising and informing systems? Is it possible to develop and implement such a system model in all European countries?
• Are VET systems of different European countries compatible and whether they are ready for common responding to changing needs?
Among other activities, one of the main objectives of presented project is empirical study among VET schools’ pupil in 7 European countries to validate study quality and transparency of VET systems in those countries.

Research results are intended for decision makers, experts, managers in HE and VET institutions and secondary school pupil who plan to enrol into VET.
Presented paper contains results derived from research made in Latvian institutions of initial VET as well as their comparison with results obtained in other partner’s countries.