The dual system in the German vocational training: school and enterprise

Abstract

This article is the result of a study about the German dual system of vocational training; this study has used different qualitative research techniques. It examines both the structure of Berufsschule, which is the school where the apprentices study, and the instruction given by companies. This combination of institutions makes the system of education dual. Therefore, apprentices must attend classes taught in Berufsschule while they are also training in a company. This model serves as a paradigm for other countries which intend to develop and implement it, due to its social and economic advantages. First, I present the objectives of the vocational school and its most important organizational elements. Then, I analyze the role of companies in this type of teaching and the task performed by tutors. Finally, I present the social and the economic benefits of this system. This model could be exported to other countries, because it adequately meets the demands of the economic environment and, thus, enables the incorporation of students into the labor market.