An Overview of Vocational Education and Training in Turkey.

Data for studies of vocational education and training systems in Turkey and five other countries in the region were gathered through an analysis of existing studies and visits to the main stakeholders in the countries. Some of the main conclusions reached by the study of Turkey include the following: (1) there is a great need for improving the vocational education and training system in Turkey, especially since Turkey is now a candidate to join the European Union; (2) although in theory the existing relationship between education and work creates a promising basis for the development of vocational education and training, in practice the links are frequently insufficient and the effectiveness of the system varies enormously from region to region; (3) the role of social partners in vocational training needs to be developed; (4) the high degree of specialization in vocational training schools has become outdated with respect to labor market needs; (5) a needed reform that is being implemented is the creation of a modular curriculum structure, although an integrated system of vocational qualifications and standards has yet to be developed; and (6) teacher training, both preservice and inservice, needs to be strengthened. Some of the recommendations of the study include increasing the efficiency of the training system, building institutional capacity, and establishing a system of continuing training. (Contains 33 references.) (KC)