Studies show: This makes dual training more attractive for young people!

Studies show: This makes dual training more attractive for young people!

Scientists at the University of Paderborn recently published the results of their comprehensive study on dual training in Germany. This central pillar of the German labor market is seen as crucial for securing skilled workers. In the journal “Social Sciences”, the researchers report on the need for improved learning location cooperation in order to increase the quality of training and the attractiveness of dual training. The study focused on cooperation between vocational schools, training companies and inter-company vocational training centers.

Guided interviews with those involved in vocational training have shown that many problems exist in practice. In particular, inadequately coordinated training content and a lack of binding structures were identified as major obstacles. Communication between schools, companies and other educational institutions is often problem and issue-centered, which means that exchange usually only takes place when problems arise such as absences or performance deficits. Curriculum and training plans exist, but the content and timing are often not coordinated.

Innovative approaches and EU funding

As part of the “FEWL” research project, which is funded by the EU with around 804,000 euros and runs from January to December 2023, the project team led by Prof. Dr. Christian Harteis and Prof. Dr. Dietmar Heisler identified innovative approaches to improving cooperation. Positive feedback came from large companies that have established successful models such as regular visits, joint projects and structured exchange formats. These examples illustrate how sustainable collaboration can promote cooperation as a place of learning.

The results of this study are relevant not only for training companies and vocational schools, but also for educational policy makers and other areas of education, such as teacher training. Improved learning location cooperation could therefore significantly increase the quality of the dual system and increase the attractiveness of vocational training.

The development of dual studies

The trend towards dual training is also reflected in dual studies, which have increased significantly in recent years. In 2004 there were only 512 dual study programs, while in 2016 there were already 1,592. The number of dual students rose from 50,000 to 100,739. Around 47,000 companies, mainly medium-sized and large ones, take part in these programs. The main reasons why students choose this path are the practical orientation, compensation and better entry-level positions and opportunities for advancement.

However, the large number of offers also brings challenges. Quality assurance and adherence to scientific standards are often inadequate. Institutions therefore demand a clear definition and quality assurance measures for dual study programs. While there are national standards in study programs that integrate training, those that integrate practice are less regulated. There is currently no empirical data base that reflects the quality of the practical phases.

A comprehensive student survey, which covered 4,125 dual students, shows that 86.6% of them would choose a dual study program again, with satisfaction with supervision and remuneration playing a decisive role. University of Paderborn reports that responsibility for the quality of the practical phases lies primarily with the educational institutions that conclude corresponding cooperation agreements with companies.

In summary, it can be said that both dual training and dual studies in Germany face significant challenges. Research and policy initiatives aim to increase the quality of training and increase the attractiveness of these educational pathways in order to meet the ongoing need for skilled workers.