Managing vocational training as a joint venture - can the German approach of co-operative education serve as a model for the United States and other countries?

Authors: Weihrich, Heinz; Seidenfuss, Kai-Uwe; Goebel, Volker

Source: European Business Review, Volume 96, Number 1, 1996 , pp. 31-40(10)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

Introduces the traditional German apprenticeship training approach which has been received favourably in US governments (federal and state) and in industry, but suggests that certain conditions in America do not favour heavy investment in such training. Shows that the educational transfer of the apprenticeship model may be facilitated by German firms investing and operating in the United States, as proved by the electronic giant Siemens which is committed to implementing the proven apprenticeship model in its US subsidiaries. Shows that the apprenticeship model alone may be insufficient, and may need to be supplemented by a higher level, dual system education which integrates theory and practice. Proposes that the Vocational Academy programme, illustrated by the Mercedes-Benz experience, may fill this gap - not to supplant the apprenticeship training, but to supplement it. Suggests that both the apprenticeship model and the Vocational Academy model, may fill an important need for an educational joint venture approach, not only in the United States but also in other countries, by making business and government organizations more competitive in the global market.

Keywords: Apprenticeship; Germany; Training; Usa; Vocational Training

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/09555349610107069

Publication date: 1996-01-01