“Investing in educators is paramount for the advancement of vocational education and training,” says Ms. Nataliia Dolgova, International TVET Expert.
To learn more about the challenges with respect to trainers in TVET, importance of industry experience for trainers, addressing the gap between theory and practical learning, making vocational education as aspirational, reimagine and rebuild vocational education, importance of vocational trainers and educators, and more, we spoke with Ms. Nataliia Dolgova, International TVET Expert.
Below are a few excerpts from our conversation. You can watch the full conversation on our YouTube channel.
Q. How can technology enhance vocational training for teachers and industry experts?
A. In my view, the odyssey into a vocational calling within the realms of Vocational Education and Training (VET) is inaugurated by the educator. It is from their wellspring of knowledge that the future graduate draws the competencies essential for their professional life. In our current epoch, we grapple with multifaceted challenges besetting teachers in the secondary professional education system:
- The sting of meager remuneration
- The gap of insufficient qualifications
- The burden of overwhelming workloads, among others
Furthermore, we confront a quandary wherein the pedagogical preparation for the secondary professional education system neglects to impart the pragmatic knowledge essential for future professional endeavors. Take, for instance, the exploration of theoretical modules in engineering sciences, which fails to illuminate the operation of cutting-edge technological equipment in production settings. This void in practical knowledge renders educators incapable of guiding students through the resolution of real-world production dilemmas.
The archetypal journey of a college educator is marked by the acquisition of a “dual” diploma—a testament to their pedagogical and specialist expertise—yet often devoid of industry experience. This discrepancy fosters a chasm of knowledge that, within a mere 2-3 years, escalates to a profound disconnection from the realities of production.
Q. What successful models have integrated curriculum with industry needs, and how can teacher education align with industry requirements?
A. It’s a complex question because when we engage with industry, their expectations can sometimes be unclear or unconventional. For instance, in 2018, we conducted a training program for vocational school directors in Siberia, which included meetings with local businesses to tailor educational programs to industry needs. While the meetings appeared successful on paper, they often turned out to be disasters in reality. Many companies were unsure about their needs and demanded immediate solutions without allowing us time to prepare. Consequently, directors would hastily take notes and attempt to implement changes, ultimately resulting in students being prepared for yesterday’s needs rather than tomorrow’s. This underscores the importance of establishing a well-structured system of vocational training in collaboration with businesses to ensure ongoing alignment with industry demands.
Q. How do you ensure trainers stay updated with evolving technology to provide effective industry-integrated training? Can you please provide a few examples?
A. I have two examples. In Russia, we had a WorldSkills standard ecosystem for training students and educators, theoretically up-to-date but disconnected from industry realities, resulting in overqualified graduates struggling to find jobs. On a brighter note, there’s a project in Russia called ‘Professionalism II,’ launched in 2022, which offers innovative, short-term education programs with guaranteed jobs from employers, fostering collaboration between companies, educators, and students, with special training for teachers tailored to each program, reflecting the importance of adapting to changing industry demands.
Q. How can we make vocational education more aspirational?
A. In recent years, I delved deeper into the historical context of vocational education and training, uncovering eras when it served as a sanctuary for those deemed ignorant. Following the dissolution of the USSR in the 1990s, this decline persisted, prompting the need for a comprehensive reconstruction effort today. Despite daunting obstacles, the landscape shifted significantly post-pandemic, thanks to government initiatives like “World Skills” and “Professionalism.” These programs have played a pivotal role in promoting vocational education, rendering it more accessible and esteemed.
Also read: Understanding the TVET ecosystem in Uganda
Q. Is there anything else you wish to say to our audience?
A. It’s crucial to emphasize that the success of these endeavors hinges greatly on the commitment of educators. Elevating their salaries and enhancing the prestige of vocational education and training are essential steps toward creating thriving communities and robust ecosystems. Thus, investing in educators is paramount for the advancement of vocational education and training.
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