Vocational Training Programs:

the perception of young learning

Abstract

The objective of this research was to analyze the young apprentices’ perceptions towards the programs of professional training which they will participate. For this, an exploratory, qualitative research was carried out, with a set of data that took place through semi-structured interviews with eight youngsters. The categories of analysis can be synthesized in the following way: i) youth and the job market, ii) apprenticeship programs - didactics, theory and practice and iii) professional training - development, interaction and learning. The data revealed that, in general, the participation in the program was satisfying and there is recognition of the importance of the experience for their professional formation. The personal and professional growth and the opportune relationships in the work environment were revealed as very relevant for the interviewees, and financial issue was not a primordial factor. The youngsters agree that the most effective learning take place through simultaneous work and study. In this sense, they criticize the lack of connection between the classrooms ministered by the training institution and the practice in the company. Lastly, we highlight three characteristics that, according to the participants, were acquired or developed during a non-program experience: communication, interpersonal relationship and responsibility.