Training in Germany: a view from abroad

Abstract

Critically examines the German dual system of training provision. Examines the role of Germany's model of vocational training as a model for Britain to follow. Draws on the political economy of training and assesses the corporatist nature of Germany's labour market. Argues that German training cannot be explained in isolation from other aspects of the German economy and concludes that British attempts to replicate features of the German system, where desirable, are likely to prove unsuccessful.

Labour markets, unemployment and training for quality: Germany and Japan

“…German labour market segmentation by gender has also been confirmed in a recent study on further training (Georgellis and Lange, 1997). Shackleton (1997) also reminds us that: it is worth bearing in mind that the emphasis on formal qualifications in the German system means that those without certified skills -older workers, some women, immigrants -tend to be excluded from some of the benefits of qualified employee status such as occupational pension and other entitlements.…”

German training revisited: an appraisal of corporatist governance

“…As a consequence, it has been argued that gaining adult status and pay in Germany's labour market is increasingly delayed. So notes Shackleton (1997, p. 305) that “the average age of apprentices has been rising, with many only qualifying for adult pay well into their twenties. This delay is costly to individuals and the economy.…”

“…Whilst some have focused their misgivings on its tightly regulated regime (e.g. Shackleton, 1997), the more operational criticism has concentrated on the shortfall of in‐company training opportunities to meet the demand for apprenticeships. In recent years, nearly a third of youngsters in post‐secondary education were in vocational schools rather than in workplace apprenticeships.…”

The importance of owner-managed SMEs and regional apprenticeship activity: evidence from the German Mittelstand

“…Creating graduates with theoretical and practical knowledge, the German apprenticeship system helps to meet the firms' demand for skilled labour, necessary to produce product and services of high quality (Federal Ministry of Economics andTechnology 2009, 2014). Thereby, the apprenticeship system might contribute to a relatively low youth unemployment rate in Germany (Winkelmann 1996;Shackleton 1997;Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology 2014).…”

“…Since apprenticeship training helps to meet firms' demand for skilled labour, it is economically highly relevant (Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology 2014) and essential in the light of the prevailing demographic trends. Furthermore, apprenticeship training might contribute to minimize youth unemployment (Winkelmann 1996;Shackleton 1997) and thus reduces social spending for the unemployed (Franz et al 2000).…”