A1 Journal article (refereed)
Interaction between students and class teachers in vocational education and training : ‘Safety distance is needed’ (2019)
Ryökkynen, S., Pirttimaa, R., & Kontu, E. (2019). Interaction between students and class teachers in vocational education and training : ‘Safety distance is needed’. Nordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 9(2), 156-174. https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.1992156
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Ryökkynen, Sanna; Pirttimaa, Raija; Kontu, Elina
Journal or series: Nordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training
eISSN: 2242-458X
Publication year: 2019
Volume: 9
Issue number: 2
Pages range: 156-174
Publisher: Linköping University Electronic Press
Publication country: Sweden
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.1992156
Publication open access: Openly available
Publication channel open access: Open Access channel
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/67633
Abstract
Interaction between students and teachers is fundamental and has therefore been widely studied in education. However, there have been few studies on intensive spe-cial support being provided to vocational education and training (VET) students. Firstly, the focus of this article is on students’ perceptions of interactions with their class teachers. Students (aged 17–34 years) from four Finnish vocational institutions providing intensive special support were interviewed. According to the findings, the demands students placed on their class teachers and for interactions with them were modest and their perceptions of both were favourable. Interactions seemed to be study-orientated and class teachers behaved as active initiators, with students echo-ing their opinions. Students’ narratives excluded future career plans, talking about students’ strengths or future ambitions or dreams. Secondly, the aim of this study is to review Finnish VET critically. In the reformed VET system, competence-based ori-entation emphasises individual guidance and support. Therefore, as the dialogue between teacher and student seems to enable successful trajectories, it is essential to make this apparent. Part of education’s larger purpose is to make room for students’ voices and interpretations during their study, which includes both acquiring qualifi-cations to undertake certain work, and subjectification as an empowering element and socialisation of the social, cultural and political order.
Keywords: vocational education and training; teacher-pupil relationship; interaction; critical pedagogy; direction (instruction and guidance); social justice; content analysis
Free keywords: vocational education and training (VET); interaction; critical pedagogy; guidance; power; social justice; content analysis
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
Reporting Year: 2019
JUFO rating: 1
