Description
Recent research in the vocational education and training (VET) sector shows that students are gaining a range of benefits from their studies, beyond expected course outcomes. Students are developing new networks, and gaining confidence and self esteem through the respect received from their teachers and classmates. For some students, these advantages help them to find work and interact more easily with those around them. The networks and trust developed by students can also be referred to as 'social capital'. While many students are gaining social capital outcomes incidentally, these outcomes can also be actively developed. This paper discusses the concept of social capital and examines the link between social capital and VET. The paper also outlines ways in which social capital can be developed through VET courses and partnerships. The research shows developing social capital can be particularly helpful for marginalised young people.
Summary
About the research
Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) system aims to give students practical skills and competencies. Recent research shows that in addition to these skills, VET students are also developing social capital through their training.
Social capital in this context comprises the networks, shared values and understandings between people, that enable individuals and groups to trust each other and work together.
This paper draws on several studies commissioned by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) and discusses the link between social capital and vocational education and training.
Key messages
- Students are building social capital by developing new networks, and gaining confidence and self-esteem through the respect they receive from their teachers and classmates. This has helped some students, in particular marginalised young people, to find work and interact more easily with those around them.
- While many students are gaining social capital outcomes incidentally, VET instructors can provide additional opportunities for their students by encouraging them to interact and work collaboratively and inviting people from potentially useful networks to co-teach or participate in the training.
- VET providers can build social capital by developing partnerships with communities, schools and employers.
Tom Karmel
Managing Director, NCVER