Developing and Implementing Vocational High School Programs to Enhance Key Competencies Needed for the Workforce

Key competencies refer to the capabilities that everyone should be equipped with in maintaining employment and can be fulfilled through a general education to some degree. However, in Korea it has been pointed out that our general education system is ineffective in terms of developing practical capabilities related to our jobs, as it depends heavily on memorization. The purpose of this research was to analyze the status of the key competencies of vocational high school students who have received a general education and to facilitate the development of the key competencies through vocational high schools. This research analyzed the concept and scope of key competencies and examined the related literatures and materials to determine their level. In order to evaluate the educational status and requirements concerning key competencies in vocational high schools, the contents of required textbooks were analyzed by teachers and a questionnaire survey among teachers of vocational high schools was conducted as well. Based on the result of this analysis, a program of key competencies comprising individual, interpersonal and organizational skills was developed by professionals. Additionally, educational method for other areas were provided. In particular, a professionals' conference was held and diverse opinions were accommodated with visits to vocational high schools in order to enhance the validity of the direction and results of this research