Instructors' and employers' perceptions of the adequacy of training in four selected secondary vocational programs

The purpose of the study was to assess the perceptions of vocational instructors and employers regarding the adequacy of the training in four selected secondary vocational programs (Auto Mechanics, Drafting, Machine Shop, and Residential Wiring). More specifically, the study attempted to: (1) determine whether instructors and employers are satisfied with the occupational preparation of vocational graduates; (2) determine the availability of entry-level job opportunities; (3) identify the basic educational and occupational skills required to perform these jobs; and (4) determine the extent to which the selected vocational programs are responding to current job skills demands.

Questionnaires were used to survey thirty vocational instructors of the four selected vocational programs and seventy-six employers who were identified by the instructors as providing employment for their students. The t-test statistic was used to analyze the data. Findings of the study were:

1. Instructors and employers were satisfied with the quality of vocational training.

2. With the exception of the specific job skills offered in the Drafting program, instructors' and employers' perceptions of the importance of particular job specific skills in the additional programs were similar.

3. The vocational curriculum offerings coincided with the entry-level jobs that were available to secondary vocational graduates.

4. The most frequent suggestions offered by employers for improving vocational education were for the schools to provide opportunities for students to obtain more "hands-on" experience and place more emphasis on basic academic and employability skills.

5. The placement rate of graduates in related occupations was less than 50 percent.