Session 4 Abstracts - NordYrk 2026

Take a closer look at the session 4 presentations and presenters here. These presentations are part of the programme on Thursday, 11 June. 

Co-creating Craft Pedagogy: Five Principles for Practice-Centered Learning in Vocational Education

Author(s): Anne Katrine Kamstrup, University College Copenhagen & Vibe Aarkrog, University of Aarhus 
Category / based on: Development project 
Presentation format: Paper presentation (4A, in English)

Framing 

This abstract presents the process and outcomes of a Danish research-inspired development project, demonstrating how co-creation between researchers and practitioners shaped prac-tical results. In this project called “Gejst”, vocational experts, teachers, researchers, and pedagogical consultants collaboratively designed five principles of “craft pedagogy” to en-hance mastery and engagement for the students at a vocational school for culinary art. Grounded in hands-on practice and iterative experimentation, these principles provide a con-crete pedagogical tool for teachers to foreground material, sensory, and practical dimensions in their craft-based teaching.

Methodology 

The five principles were developed through a co-creation process involving vocational experts, vocational teachers, researchers, and consultants in the Gejst project. Drawing on practical experimentation, development and reflection in workshops and theoretical insights, the team iteratively articulated and refined pedagogical principles. Documentation through observation, reflective practice, and collaborative analysis informed the development of the five principles (Wahlgren & Aarkrog, 2019).

Results or expected outcomes 

The project resulted in two main outcomes. First, a practical guideline consisting of five principles for craft pedagogy, designed as a concrete resource for vocational teachers (Kamstrup & Aarkrog, 2025). Second, knowledge about how co-creation processes between practitioners and researchers can support practice development in vocational education. Both the pedagogical product and the process-related insights will be presented and discussed at the conference.

References

Kamstrup, A. & Aarkrog, V. (2025). Fem principper for håndværkspædagogik. Københavns Professionshøjskole og Aarhus Universitet. Link 

Wahlgren, B. & Aarkrog V. (2019) Forskningscirkler som praksisnær forskning. Mødet mellem praksisbaseret og forskningsbaseret viden. Tidsskrift for professionsstudier 29 (24-33).

The Meaning of Internships and Work placements for Students in VET through Students' Lenses: Opportunities for Participation, Practice learning, Personal and Professional Development

Author(s): Stefanie A. Hillen & Frank Egeland, University of Agder
Category / based on: Work in progress
Presentation format: Paper presentation (4A, in English) 

Framing 

A shift towards practical learning has been announced in compulsory education in Norway (Meld. St. 34, 2023–24).This paper focuses on practice learning as real work experience, as outlined in the internship guidelines. Its main objectives are to motivate students, provide them with experience, and encourage their participation in working life. Although teachers and practice mentors create local curricula for these practice periods, students' voices remain underrepresented. Their perspectives could strengthen learning and development opportunities. Research question: what can be learnt from students' experiences to inform schools and companies about learning opportunities during internships? 

Methodology 

We surveyed mainly 11th-grade students (Vg2) about learning opportunities, motivation, iden-tity development, task co-determination, and their overall experiences in practice placements (Deci & Ryan, 2008; Zimmerman, 2000). Depending on their placement length, we used semi-structured interviews with up to 12 items. This enabled us to explore how the beginning and end of placements, including onboarding and adjourning, shaped identification, learning, and future employment opportunities. 

Results or expected outcomes 

Our results highlight students’ experiences of workplace learning and differ from descriptive surveys (Udir, 2025) by exploring what motivates them, how they learn, and whether they had opportunities to try out tasks and complete these independently. We identify aspects that, in our analysis, appear constructive for VET learning and development. The analysis is content-directed and informed by theories of self-regulation, co-determination, and communities of practice in vocational education. 

References

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2008). Self-Determination Theory: A Macrotheory of Human Motivation, Development, and Health, S. 183. In: Canadian Psychology 49, 182–185. 
Egeland, F., & Hillen, S. (2025). Selvregulert læring i yrkesfaglig opplæring: Erfaringer og refleksjoner fra skolens praksis med pandemien som kontekst [Self-regulated learning in vocational education and training: Experiences and reflections from school’s praxis in the context of the pandemic]. Nordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 15, 82–114. https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.2515382 
Meld. St. 34 (2023-2024). En mer praktisk skole. https://www.regjeringen.no/no/dokumenter/meld.-st.-34-20232024/id3052898
Udir. (2016).Yrkesfaglig fordyning. https://www.udir.no/utdanningslopet/videregaende-opplaring/felles-for-fagopplaringen/yrkesfagleg-fordjuping/yrkesfaglig-fordypning-for-de-yrkesfaglige-utdanningsprogrammene-yff/
Udir. (2025). Læringsundersøkelsen 2025. https://www.udir.no/tall-og-forskning/forskning-og-annet-kunnskapsgrunnlag/funn-fra-larlingundersokelsen/ 
Zimmerman, B. J. (2008). Investigating self-regulation and motivation: Historical background, methodological developments, and future prospects. American Educational Research Journal, 45(1), 166–183. https://doi.org/10.3102/0002831207312909 

How teaching in practical learning arenaes facilitates learning for future professions and everydaylife, for the group of students and each individual student

Author(s): Nina Marie Storborg, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) 
Category / based on: Work in progress 
Presentation format: Paper presentation (4A, in English) 

Framing 

The PhD study focuses on vocational teachers' teaching practices in practical training arenas. The theory of practice architectures is used as both a theoretical and analytical lens. This presentation sheds light on what happens in meetings between vocational teachers and stu-dents, where vocational teachers guide students. How, in the same meeting, do vocational teachers motivate and support students in their professional and human development? Anal-yses show several common features in the teaching practices of vocational teachers in the various education programs. The theory of practice architectures is used as a theoretical lens to highlight the common features. 

Methodology 

The Phd-project is based on the qualitative method; stimulated recall. Six vocational teachers from four different vocational programs where observed and video-filmed through severeal teaching lessons. After analysing the video-recordings of each vocational teacher- about 8-10 recordings was picked out. The teachers then saw the videos of the teachingpractices and they where interviewed about their practices. The video-recordings and the interviewes are analysed by using the practice theory.

Results or expected outcomes 

Sayings,doings,relatings;VET teachers talk to the group of students- and ask or say what work each students shall start to do. VET teachers give students formative assessment so they bet-ter can do the professional work.VET teachers walks around in the practical training arenaes-look around and listen when they walk-approach students who needs to be seen, but through the lesson- they meet all students.VET-teachers facilitate learning environment that include all the students.

References

Kemmis, S., Wilkinson, J., Edwards-Groves, C., Hardy, I., Grootenboer, P., & Bristol, L. (2014). Changing practices, changing education. Singapore: Springer. 

Kemmis, S. (2022). Transforming Practices : Changing the World with the Theory of Practice Architectures. Springer Singapore Pte. Limited.

Schmid, E., & Solberg, S. (2025). Hvordan bygge gode relasjoner til elever? Ti tips fra erfarne yrkesfaglærere: How to Build Positive Relationships with Students. Ten Tips From Experienced Vocational Teachers. Norsk pedagogisk tidskrift, 109(2), 77-89.

Co-Creating the Core Foundations of an AI Chatbot to Support Workplace Instructors

Author(s): Sanni Suominen, Jatta Herranen, & Sirkku Ranta, Riveria / University of Eastern Finland Category / based on: Work in progress 
Presentation format: Workshop (4B, in English) 

Workshop abstract 

In Finland, the Act on Vocational Education and Training (531/2017) stipulates that work-based learning constitutes the main form of collaboration between vocational education and working life and serves as a key mechanism for the acquisition of vocational competence. While this importance is emphasised, studies have noted areas where work-based learning could be further supported, for example through the continued development of workplace instructors’ guidance and assessment practices (e.g., Hievanen et al., 2022). OECD (2023) analyses additionally point out that the effectiveness of work-based learning is shaped by employers’ training capacity, which varies according to the quality of available training expertise, methods and equipment. 

Digital solutions can enhance the quality, accessibility, and labour market relevance of vocational education (OECD, 2023). In our research project, we are developing an AI chatbot to support workplace instructors in their guidance practices. Prior to the workshop, we have explored the types of questions workplace instructors might ask a chatbot, complemented by insights gathered from vocational teachers, as well as broader user preferences regarding communication with the tool. The workshop itself contributes to the data collection by generating insights that will be used to inform the chatbot’s foundational instructions, enabling it to support interaction between student and workplace instructor and thereby foster student learning. 

References

Act on Vocational Education and Training. (2017). The act on vocational education and training: Finlex 531/2017. https://www.finlex.fi/en/laki/kaannokset/2017/en20170531.pdf 

Hievanen, R., Kilpeläinen, P., Huhtanen, M., Tuurnas, A., Loukusa, V., Pylväs, L., Rasinaho, K., Takaala, J., Tujula, M., & Vieltäjärvi, M. 2022. Collaboration with Working Life - An Evaluation of Work-based Learning and Cooperation between Vocational Education and Working Life [Kumppanina työelämä - Arviointi työelämässä oppimisesta ja työelämäyhteistyöstä ammatillisessa koulutuksessa.] https://www.karvi.fi/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/documents/Kumppanina-tyoelama-Arviointi-tyoelamassa-oppimisesta-ja-tyoelamayhteistyosta-ammatillisessa-koulu-tuksessa.pdf

OECD. (2023). Building Future-Ready Vocational Education and Training Systems, OECD Reviews of Vocational Education and Training. OECD Publishing, Paris. https://doi.org/10.1787/28551a79-en.

Från avsikt till avbrott: att påbörja och avbryta en valideringsprocess

Author(s): Magnus Fjellström & Per Kristmansson, Umeå universitetet 
Category / based on: Research 
Presentation format: Paper presentation (4C, in Swedish)

Framing 

I Sverige kan valet att bli yrkeslärarare ses som ett andra karriärsteg (Kristmansson & Fjellström, 2022). Att möjlggöra tillträde till yrkeslärarutbildningen sker genom flera steg: 1) yrkesverksamma arbetare måste bestämma sig för att validera sina yrkeskunskaper för att bli behörig att söka till yrkeslärarutbildning och 2) få sina yrkeskunkaper validerade. Denna process innefattar att arbetslivserfarenhet och färdigheter måste omsättas i erkänd kompetens genom dokumenterade yrkeskunskaper och en bedömningsprocess (Andersson, 2020). Många som påbörjat validering väljer att avbryta. Denna studie avser att ur ett validandperspektiv öka förståelsen om avsikt och avbrott i valideringsprocessen.

Methodology 

En webenkät distribruerades till alla som påbörjat och avbrutit valideringsprocessen av yrkeskunskaper (N=2660) mellan åren 2015 och 2025 vid ValiWeb. Data tolkas och förstås utifrån Hodkinson & Sparkes (1997) teori om careership där både frivilliga och påtvingade brytpunkter formar handlingshorisonter. Enkäten består av tre frågeområden som berör 1) val-et att påbörja validering, 2) valet avsluta validering och 3) vad skulle få en att återuppta valid-eringen. 

Results or expected outcomes 

Resultatet kommer att belysa hur valideringsprocessen möjliggör eller hindrar akademiska studier. Vidare förväntas kunskap om faktorer som kan motivera individer att återuppta valid-ering samt bidra till en ökad förståelse av valideringsprocessen. Detta kan i sin tur bidra till ökad kunskap om hur en större andel validerade och potentiella behöriga yrkeslärare kan möjliggöras. I studien förväntas careership bidra till förståelse för individers val gällande fram-tida karriärer.

References 

Andersson, P. (2020). Fastighetsskötares erfarenheter av validering:[Caretakers experiences of validation]. Nordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 10(3), 29-44. 

Hodkinson, P., & Sparkes, A. C. (1997). Careership: A sociological theory of career decision making. British journal of sociology of education, 18(1), 29-44. 

Kristmansson, P., & Fjellström, M. (2022). Motivations to have a Second Career as a Teacher in Vocational Education and Training. Vocations and Learning, 15(3), 407-425.

Hur kan AI-genererade lärandeguider utvecklas och användas för att stödja yrkeselevers lärande på arbetsplatsförlagt lärande (APL)?

Author(s): Tord Göran Olovsson, Pedagogiska institutionen, Umeå universitet; Richard Larsson, Umeå kommun; Annette Brander, Umeå kommun; Johan Hansson, Pedagogiska institutionen, Umeå universitet; Katarina Kärnebro, Pedagogiska institutionen, Umeå universitet; Gunilla Näsström, Pedagogiska institutionen, Umeå universitet & Anders D. Olofsson, Pedagogiska institutionen, Umeå universitet 

Category / based on: Work in progress

Presentation format: Paper presentation (4C, in Swedish)

Framing 

Svenska yrkeselever genomför stora delar av sin utbildning som APL, men elevernas möjligheter varierar stort och samarbetet mellan skola och arbetsplats är ofta otillräckligt (Skolinspektionen, 2017). I detta samverkansprojekt mellan skola och universitet utvecklas AI-stödda lärandeguider för att tydliggöra progression och lärandemål samt öka yrkeselevernas delaktighet. Projektet inkluderar även yrkeslärarstudenter. Syftet är att undersöka hur lärandeguiderna utvecklas, används och erfars samt hur detta påverkar elevers och lärares lärande. Analys sker genom teorin om praktikarkitekturer (Kemmis et al. 2014) samt begreppen situated learning och Communities of Practice (e.g., Wenger, 1998).

Methodology 

I projektet genomförs en praktiknära forskningsstudie (jfr Skolforskningsinstitutet, 2024). Den baseras på skolans utvärdering av påbörjad del av utvecklingsarbete om lärandeguider, semi-strukturerade intervjuer med yrkeslärare och handledare samt deltagande observationer vid en forskningscirkel. Dessutom genomförs en enkät med yrkeslärarstudenter som deltar i workshops med skolans yrkeslärare, samt analys av trepartssamtal mellan elev, lärare och handledare. 

Results or expected outcomes 

Preliminära resultat från en första del av utvecklingsarbetet visar att kvaliteten på lärarnas kollegiala lärande har stärkts, att elevernas delaktighet har ökat samt att krav och förväntningar gällande trepartssamtal har tydliggjorts. Genom vidare datainsamling (intervjuer, observationer, enkät) förväntas svar på hur lärandeguiderna utvecklas och stödjer undervisning och lärande, hur lärarnas samarbete fortlöper, samt hur lärandeguider kan stödja yrkeslärarstudenter i sin utveckling. 

References

Kemmis, S., Wilkinson, J., Edwards-Groves, C., Grootenboer, P. & Bristol, L. (2014). Changing Practices, Changing Education. Springer. 

Skolforskningsinstitutet (2024). Praktiknära skolforskning – resultat och erfarenheter från nio forskningsprojekt. Skolforskningsinstitutet. 

Skolinspektionen (2017). Helhet i utbildningen på gymnasiets yrkesprogram. https://www.skolinspektionen.se/globalassets/02-beslut-rapporter-stat/granskningsrapporter/tkg/2017/yrkesgymnasium/helhet-i-utbildningen-pa-gymnasiets-yrkesprogram_2017.pdf

Wenger, E. (1998). Communities of practice: Learning, meaning, and identity. Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511803932 

Läsmotivation på gymnasiets yrkesprogram: en kvantitativ delstudie

Author(s): Kristina Hagdahl, Högskolan Dalarna
Category / based on: Work in progress
Presentation format: Paper presentation (4C, in Swedish)

Framing 

Elever på gymnasiets yrkesprogram uppvisar ofta svagt läsintresse och låg motivation för läsning, trots att läsning är centralt både i yrkesutbildning och arbetsliv. Tidigare forskning visar starka samband mellan läsintresse, reading self-concept och studieresultat, men i yrkesutbildning framstår läsning ofta som sekundär i relation till praktiskt arbete. Delstudien ingår i ett större avhandlingsarbete och fokuserar elevers läsintresse och motivation för läsning inom yrkesutbildning, med utgångspunkt i självbestämmandeteorin (SDT). Särskilt uppmärksammas hur motivationens kvalitet kan variera mellan program och vikten av hur läsning relateras till yrkesinnehåll och framtida yrkesutövning. 

Methodology 

Studien bygger på en kvantitativ enkätundersökning genomförd bland elever på gymnasiets yrkesprogram i Sverige (N = 1 106). En webbaserad enkät mätte elevers läsintresse och motivation för läsning i skolan med inspiration från Academic Self-Regulation Questionnaire (SRQ-A). Data analyserades med deskriptiv och inferentiell statistik, inklusive t-test, variansanalys samt korrelations- och regressionsanalys. Ett Relative Autonomy Index (RAI) användes för att mäta motivationens kvalitet. 

Results or expected outcomes 

Resultaten visar lågt läsintresse och övervägande kontrollerad motivation bland elever på yrkesprogram. Programtillhörighet förklarar mer variation i läsmotivation än exempelvis kön, årskurs eller förstahandsval. Läsintresse är en stark prediktor för autonom motivation. Elever som läser svenska som andraspråk uppvisar högre läsintresse och mer autonom motivation. Sammantaget pekar resultaten på att programkultur och upplevd relevans är centrala för att stärka elevers autonoma läsmotivation. 

References

Retelsdorf, J., Köller, O., & Möller, J. (2014). Reading achievement and reading self-concept – Testing the reciprocal effects model. Learning and Instruction, 29, 21–30.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in moti-vation, development, and wellness. New York: Guilford Press 
Visén, P. (2021). Tricks of the trade or situated literacy – disciplinary reading literacy practices in vocational education. Nordic Journal of Literacy Research, 7(1), 60–83. 
Wheelahan, L. (2015). Not just skills: What a focus on knowledge means for vocational educa-tion. Journal of Curriculum Studies, 47(6), 750–762.

Developing vocational knowledge for employment in a changing working life

Author(s): Susanne Gustavsson, University of Gothenburg; Giulia Messina Dahlberg, University of Gothenburg; Malin Bergsten, VG-regionens naturbruksskolor; Gunnar Laurell, VG-regionens naturbruksskolor;  Lillevi Svensson, VG-regionens naturbruksskolor 
Category / based on: Research
Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in English)

Framing 

Swedish upper secondary vocational education should prepare students for employment and working life, which means specific vocational, and general knowledge for a working life characterized by changes in, for example, technology, digitalization, tasks and assignments. To create the conditions for relevant vocational knowledge, the teacher’s didactic choices regarding the content and forms of teaching are essential. The purpose of the study is to investigate how the working practice expresses acceptable vocational knowledge after completed education, as well as how vocational teachers interpret its significance for teaching in school and at the workplace. 

Methodology 

The study is conducted in collaboration between researchers and teachers in vocational education. Initially, representatives from workplaces/vocational organizations were interviewed about what knowledge is needed within the relevant vocational field. The analysis from these interviews was used as a basis for a focus group with vocational teachers. The study's analysis uses the theory of practice architectures (Green et al., 2016; Kemmis Grootenboer).

Results or expected outcomes 

The results are expected to highlight tensions between vocational practice and teaching re-garding needs and expectations, as well as the mission and possibilities of teaching. How can upper secondary vocational education prepare for both specific and general knowledge in the short and long term, and what limitations, but also areas for development, can be identified?)

References

Green, A., Brennan Kemmis, R., Choy, S., Henning Loeb, I., Mahon, K., Francisco, S., & Kemmis, S. (2016). Using the Theory of Practice Architectures to Explore VET in Schools Teachers’ Pedagogy. In Exploring Education and Professional Practice (pp. 121–138). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-2219-7_7 
Kemmis, S. & Grootenboer, P. (2008). Situating praxis in practice: Practice architectures and the cultural, social and material conditions for practice. I: S. Kemmis & T. Smith (red.), Enabling praxis (Red.) Sense Publications.

Project VÄXA: Developing evidence-based peer learning to strengthen supervision competence and resilience in healthcare and paramedicine

Author(s): Christoffer Ericsson, Jessica Silfver, Petra Ekman, Niko Loimijoki & Hannes Similä, Arcada University of Applied Sciences

Category / based on: Development project

Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in English)

Framing 

The complexity of healthcare work is increasing while the number of available clinical placements is decreasing. Supervisors lack tools to identify individual needs and support student resilience, crucial for retention in the field. In contexts, such as emergency care, supervision is further challenged by extreme time pressure and irregular patient contact. Project VÄXA addresses this gap by developing sustainable, evidence-based solutions based on peer learning. The purpose is to strengthen supervision competence and promote sustainable career development. 

Methodology 

The project uses a two-step model to develop resource-efficient material. Initially, needs are identified through data collection from students and supervisors. The project is divided into two work packages: one further developing a general process model for peer learning in healthcare, and a context-specific package for the unique features of acute and emergency care. The method focuses on creating agile micro-courses that are piloted and evaluated in close cooperation with workplace partners. 

Results or expected outcomes 

The expected outcome is evidence-based educational material in the form of micro-courses that strengthen supervisors' ability to support student learning and resilience. By implementing peer learning, a sustainable supervision culture is created that supports continuous learning in the workplace. This is expected to lead to students better achieving their competence goals and experiencing a safer induction into working life, contributing to society's need for resilient healthcare personnel.

References

Biggs, J. Enhancing teaching through constructive alignment. High Educ 32, 347–364 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00138871

González-García, A., Díez-Fernández, A., Leino-Kilpi, H., Martínez-Vizcaíno, V., & Strandell-Laine, C. (2021). The relationship between clinical placement duration and students' satisfac-tion with the quality of supervision and learning environment: A mediation analysis. Nursing & health sciences, 23(3), 688–697. https://doi.org/10.1111/nhs.12855

What is needed to learn together, peer learning in skills training

Author(s): Jessica Silfver, Christoffer Ericsson, Maria Appelroth & Petra Ekman, Arcada University of Applied Sciences

Category / based on: Development project

Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in English)

Framing 

We can see a trend in the nursing field that the students need to be more resilient and master generic skills such as teamwork, communication, giving and receiving feedback. By enabling UAS students to facilitate their own learning together with peers in skills training and further on in simulation develops these generic competences vital in working life. Earlier projects have shown that students appreciate checklists for skills practice (SkillTrack). By creating learning opportunities with a peer- learning setting and using checklists and a digital tool as support students develop competences valuable to work life. Students also develop ability to be self-directed int their learning.

Methodology 

Data was collected during additional peer-learning based skills training sessions in the nursing program. To each skill checklist there was mandatory pre and post practice questionnaires. The questionnaires contained questions about preparation, learning experience, own input in the peer setting and factors that enabled their learning. All questions where open questions and will be analysed with Thematic analysis.

Results or expected outcomes 

During the spring the data from 2024-2025 will be analysed. Preliminary results show that the-ory studies and preparation before skills training with peers is important. We expect to gain in-formation on how students experience their learning in a peer-learning setting. What helps them learn, how they contribute to the learning experience and how they will improve their in-put and preparation. We also expect to get information on the benefits and challenges of this type of learning opportunities.

References

Kiukas C, Levälahti F. 2022. Pedagogical guide for student-centered learning – to promote an international pedagogical discussion. UAS Journal, 4/2022. Tillgänglig: https://uasjournal.fi/4-2022/pedagogical-guide-for-student-centered-learning-to-promote-an-international-pedagogical-discussion/ Hämtad: 25.11.2024.

Arcada pedagogical policy 2023 (Swedish) https://www.arcada.fi/sites/default/files/2023-5/Pedagogisk%20policy_fastst%C3%A4lld%2020221212.pdf

Woods, A., Lotherington, F., Steffensen, P., & Theophilos, T. (2025). Peer-Assisted Learning for First-Year Nursing Student Success and Retention: Findings from a Regional Australian Study. Nursing Reports, 15(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15070252

Skills for Working Life in upper secondary education

Author(s): Grethe Nina, Hestholm Western Norway University of Applied Sciences 

Category / based on: Development project

Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in English)

Framing 

How can lower secondary pupils gain experience of vocational education, vocational teach-ers, and upper secondary school? The Skills for Working Life subject gives pupils the oppor-tunity to choose a practically oriented course as an alternative to a foreign language (Meld. St. 34, 2023–2024). In this film, we follow pupils from Voss Lower Secondary School and vocation-al teachers at Voss Upper Secondary School and Voss Gymnas as they share their experienc-es with the Skills for Working Life subject, organised as a collaboration between lower and up-per secondary schools.   

Methodology 

Empirical data were collected via video of Year 10 pupils in supervised work across four voca-tional workshops: Hairdressing, Restaurant and Food Studies, Building and Construction, and Technology and Industrial Studies. Filming can be characterised as shadowing, following par-ticipants in practice (Wiig, 2024). Fourteen interviews were also recorded.The study adopts a phenomenological approach to participants’ experience (Creswell, 2013). The project was approved by Sikt, with informed consent.

Results or expected outcomes 

The Skills for Working Life subject at upper secondary school gives pupils a more engaging dai-ly experience in an otherwise theory-heavy lower secondary curriculum. Organised in this way, it also helps pupils make more informed choices about further education. This film, together with an article on the programme (Sekkingsstad et al., 2025), could inspire other schools to try a similar approach.

References

Creswell, John W. (2013): Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design. Choosing Among Five Ap-proaches. (3. Utg.). Sage. 

Meld. St. 34 (2023–2024). En mer praktisk skole - Bedre læring, motivasjon og trivsel på 5.–10.trinn. Kunnskapsdepartementet. https://www.regjeringen.no/contentassets/dcc936e85f4c43bf90ecf0bafabb00a8/no/pdfs/stm202320240034000dddpdfs.pdf

Sekkingstad, D., Morud, E.B. & Hestholm, G.N (2025). Ei styrking av arbeidslivsfaget gjennom eit samarbeid mellom ungdomsskule og vidaregåande skule. I  J. Fossøy et al. (red.). Regional konkurransekraft: Fjordantologien 2025. Universitetsforlaget. 

Wiig, N. M. (2024): Mellom nærhet og distanse: Forskerrollen og skygging som metode i den mangfoldige barnehagen. Nordisk barnehageforskning, 21(2), 62–75. https://www.nordiskbarnehageforskning.no/index.php/nbf/article/view/440/761

Ungdomsbedrift som læringsarena- en forberedelse til arbeidslivet

Author(s): Janne Tveit Stensrud & Aina Kristiansen, Institutt for yrkesfaglærerutdanning (YLU) OsloMet 

Category / based on: Research 

Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in Norwegian)

Framing 

Ungdomsbedrift (UB) er en praksisnær og elevaktiv læringsform der elever etablerer, driver og avvikler en bedrift gjennom en praktisk læringsarena. Læringsformen kan bidra til utvikling av karrierekompetanse, mestring og motivasjon, og fungere som en bro mellom skole og arbeidsliv. Skolens oppgave er å utdanne elever til fremtidens arbeidsliv slik at den enkelte utvikler kompetanse til å håndtere liv, læring og arbeid gjennom forandringer og i overganger i et arbeidslivperspektiv. Den teoretiske forankringen bygger på arbeidslivlæring, med vekt på individuell støtte, elevers interesser, identitet og engasjement i læringsprosesser (Eide, 2021; Gilberg, 2021; Billett, 2006). 

Methodology 

Datagrunnlaget bygger på kvalitativ metode (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2015) og består av ett individuelt intervju med ansvarlig lærer, gruppeintervjuer og  kvalitativ spørreundersøkelse med  åpne svaralternativer til elever. Datainnsamlingen er gjennomført ved bruk av Nettskjema (UiO), lydopptak med diktafon. Intervjuene er transkribert i Nettskjema og analysert ved hjelp av tematisk analyse. Utvalget består av elever i alderen 17–22 år som har deltatt i ungdomsbedrift som del av sin opplæring.

Results or expected outcomes 

Resultatene viser foreløpig at UB bidrar til at elevene opparbeider praktisk erfaring med reelle oppdrag, kundekontakt og prosjektgjennomføring, noe som styrker deres evne til å håndtere overganger mellom utdanning og arbeidsliv. Elevene opplever økt selvstendighet, mestring og motivasjon, samt utvikling av yrkesstolthet og identitet. Studien indikerer at ungdomsbedrift kan være en hensiktsmessig og praksisnær læringsmodell for å styrke sammenhengen mellom skole og arbeidsliv.

References

Billett. S. (2006) Constituting the workplace curriculum, Journal of Curriculum Studies, 38:1, 31-48, DOI: 10.1080/00220270500153781

Eide, O.S. (2021). Elevaktiv flerarenalæring gjennom pedagogisk entreprenørskap. Psykologi i kommunen, 5 2021.

Gilberg, A. (2024). «Du blir litt sånn selvsikker, og tenker at ‹wow› noen vil faktisk sende bilen til oss!»: Ungdomsbedrift som virkemiddel for en opplevd relevant skolehverdag. Skandinavisk Tidsskrift for Yrker Og Profesjoner I Utvikling, 9(1), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.7577/sjvd.4999

Kvale, S. & Brinkmann,S. (2015). Inter Views: learning the craft of qualitative research interviewing (3.utg.). Sage

Vurderingspraksis i faget Yrkesfaglig fordypning (YFF)

Author(s): Halvor Einung Spetalen, Kjersti Lisbeth Johnsen, Kaija-Liisa Magnussen, Marianne Bergskaug Monrad-Krohn, Torill Gunda Hammeren Møllerhagen & Marie Syverstad, OsloMet 
Category / based on: Work in progress 
Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in Norwegian)

Framing 

Ungdomsbedrift (UB) er en praksisnær og elevaktiv læringsform der elever etablerer, driver og avvikler en bedrift gjennom en praktisk læringsarena. Læringsformen kan bidra til utvikling av karrierekompetanse, mestring og motivasjon, og fungere som en bro mellom skole og arbeidsliv. Skolens oppgave er å utdanne elever til fremtidens arbeidsliv slik at den enkelte utvikler kompetanse til å håndtere liv, læring og arbeid gjennom forandringer og i overganger i et arbeidslivperspektiv. Den teoretiske forankringen bygger på arbeidslivlæring, med vekt på individuell støtte, elevers interesser, identitet og engasjement i læringsprosesser (Eide, 2021; Gilberg, 2021; Billett, 2006). 

Methodology 

Datagrunnlaget bygger på kvalitativ metode (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2015) og består av ett individuelt intervju med ansvarlig lærer, gruppeintervjuer og  kvalitativ spørreundersøkelse med  åpne svaralternativer til elever. Datainnsamlingen er gjennomført ved bruk av Nettskjema (UiO), lydopptak med diktafon. Intervjuene er transkribert i Nettskjema og analysert ved hjelp av tematisk analyse. Utvalget består av elever i alderen 17–22 år som har deltatt i ungdomsbedrift som del av sin opplæring. 

Results or expected outcomes 

Resultatene viser foreløpig at UB bidrar til at elevene opparbeider praktisk erfaring med reelle oppdrag, kundekontakt og prosjektgjennomføring, noe som styrker deres evne til å håndtere overganger mellom utdanning og arbeidsliv. Elevene opplever økt selvstendighet, mestring og motivasjon, samt utvikling av yrkesstolthet og identitet. Studien indikerer at ungdomsbedrift kan være en hensiktsmessig og praksisnær læringsmodell for å styrke sammenhengen mellom skole og arbeidsliv. 

References

Billett. S. (2006) Constituting the workplace curriculum, Journal of Curriculum  Studies, 38:1, 31-48, DOI: 10.1080/00220270500153781

Eide, O.S. (2021). Elevaktiv flerarenalæring gjennom pedagogisk entreprenørskap. Psykologi i kommunen, 5 2021.

Gilberg, A. (2024). «Du blir litt sånn selvsikker, og tenker at ‹wow› noen vil faktisk sende bilen til oss!»: Ungdomsbedrift som virkemiddel for en opplevd relevant skolehverdag. Skandinavisk Tidsskrift for Yrker Og Profesjoner I Utvikling, 9(1), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.7577/sjvd.4999

Kvale, S. & Brinkmann,S. (2015). Inter Views: learning the craft of qualitative research interviewing (3.utg.). Sage

Dialogfärdigheter i sektorsövergripande samarbete - med syftet att underlätta ungas utbildningsvägar

Author(s): Riikka Michelsson, Jamk University of Applied Sciences, Camilla Stenbäck, Åbo Akademi & Cilla Nyman, Åbo Akademi 

Category / based on: Research 
Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in Swedish)

Framing 

Sektorsövergripande samarbete mellan yrkesverksamma från olika områden ses som ett kundorienterat arbetssätt som underlättar vardagen för både dem och deras klienter. I Finland har sektorsövergripande samarbete skrivits in i lagstiftningen och anses vara en central del av studie- och karriärvägledarnas kompetens. Forskning om sektorsövergripande samarbete har identifierat faktorer som främjar eller försvårar samarbete. God interaktion mellan yrkesverksamma har en positiv inverkan på samarbetet fast själva begreppet är dock otydligt. I vår studie (Michelsson & Pukkila, 2025) har ett ramverk för dialogfärdigheter i sektorsövergripande samarbete utvecklats.

Methodology 

I studien intervjuades yrkesverksamma från Navigatorer och deras sektorsövergripande nätverk, vilka aktivt deltagit i utvecklingsarbetet inom det EU-finansierade projektet Oodi för samarbete mellan Navigatorer och utbildning. Intervjuerna genomfördes i februari 2025. Som intervjumetod användes empatibaserade berättelser (MEBS). Intervjuerna varade 20–45 minuter. Intervjumaterialet bestod av transkriptioner från de sju intervjuerna, sammanlagt 42 sidor. 

Results or expected outcomes 

De dialogfärdigheter som stöder sektorsövergripande samarbete och interaktion kan kategori-seras i tre huvudkategorier: 1) dialogisk attityd (t.ex. vänlig inställning mot andra, ömsesidig-het), 2) dialogiskt handlande i diskussioner (t.ex. öppen kommunikation, deltagande) och 3) dialogisk helhetsbild. Med hjälp av dialogisk attityd och dialogiskt handlande kan en dialogisk helhetsbild uppnås, där man i genuint sektorsövergripande samarbete skapar något nytt som möjliggör bättre service för unga. 

References 

Michelsson, R. & Pukkila, P. (2025). Dialogitaidot monialaisessa yhteistyössä [Dialogfärdigheter i sektorsövergripande samarbete]. Evolving Pedagogy. http://urn.fi/urn:nbn:fi:jamk-issn-2489-2386-30 

Pukkila, P. (2023). Monialaisen ohjauksen ja yhteistyön lähtökohdat sekä rakentuminen ohjauspalveluiden työmuodoksi: Monimenetelmällinen tutkimus Ohjaamoista. [Utgångspunkter för sektorsövergripande handledning och samarbete samt utvecklingen mot en arbetsform inom vägledningstjänster: En flermetodstudie av Navigatorers verksamhet.] Doktorsavhandling, Jyväskylä universitet. JYX. https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-951-39-9502-7 

Aarnio, H. (1999). Dialogia etsimässä. Opettajaopiskelijoiden dialogin kehittyminen tieto- ja viestintäteknistä ympäristöä varten [I sökandet efter dialog. Lärarstuderandes dialogutveckling i en informations- och kommunikationsteknisk lärmiljö] Doktorsavhandling, Tammerfors universitet. 

Aarnio, H. (2010a). Oppimisen ohjaaminen. Ingår i S. Helakorpi, H. Aarnio, & M. Majuri, Ammattipedagogiikkaa uuteen oppimiskulttuuriin (s. 155–178). [Handledning av lärande. Yrkes­pedagogik för en ny lärandekultur] (s. 155–178). Häme yrkeshögskola.

Stöd i yrkesklassrummet: en etnografisk studie vid Fordon- och transportprogrammet i Sverige

Author(s): Helena Hellgren, Göteborgs universitet, Institutionen för pedagogik och specialpedagogik 

Category / based on: Work in progress

Presentation format: Poster presentation (4D, in Swedish)

Framing 

Konferensbidraget är ett delresultat i en etnografisk sammanläggningsavhandling genomförd vid Fordons- och transportprogrammet under ett läsår i två svenska gymnasieskolor. Det övergripande syftet är att undersöka hur extra anpassning och särskilt stöd kommuniceras, organiseras och genomförs inom yrkesutbildningens olika lärmiljöer (SFS 2010:800). Delresultat belyser vilka olika former av stöd som framträder i yrkesklassrummet. Med stöd avses såväl dokumenterat individuellt stöd som stöd initierat av yrkesläraren, på både individ- och gruppnivå (Holmgren & Pettersson, 2023).

Methodology 

Den etnografiska ansatsen möjliggör analys av stödinsatser i yrkesämnesundervisning över tid och i olika lärmiljöer (Hammersley & Atkinson, 2019). Datainsamlingen omfattar deltagande observationer i yrkesklassrum och vid arbetsplatsförlagt lärande, individuella intervjuer med elever, yrkeslärare, rektorer, APL-handledare och specialpedagoger samt skolproducerade dokument och fotografier av stödmaterial. Etikprövning genomfördes, då några deltagare an-sågs extra  sårbara; "elever i behov av stöd".

Results or expected outcomes 

Vid en första analys har stödet delats in i tre kategorier; socialt, fysiskt och pedagogiskt (SPSM, 2026). Beroende av stödets karaktär, växlar stödet mellan att riktas mot individ eller grupp. En balansgång som följande utdrag från ett fältsamtal med yrkeslärare belyser"...det gäller att göra lika, men också att våga prata om svårigheter, och utmana eleverna." Samman-taget framträder yrkesklassrummet som en plats där eleverna har mycket goda möjligheter till stöd. 

References

Hammersley, M., & Atkinson, P. (2019). Ethnography: Principles in Practice: Fourth Edition. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315146027  
Holmgren, R., & Pettersson, G. (2024). The vocational teacher, an inventor in special needs education: A study on Swedish vocational programmes. NordYrk, 13(2), 100-123. https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.23132100 
SPSM. 2026, 20 januari. Tillgänglig utbildning. https://www.spsm.se/stodmaterial-for-tillganglig-utbildning/tillganglig-utbildning/ 
SFS 2010:800. Skollagen. https://www.riksdagen.se/sv/dokument-och-lagar/dokument/svensk-forfattningssamling/skollag-2010800_sfs-2010-800/

Vurdering for læring som relasjonelt og pedagogisk verktøy i yrkesfaglig opplæring. Hvordan yrkesfaglærere med VFL kan styrke elevenes opplevelse av mestring, læring og et inkluderende læringsmiljø

Author(s): Bård Yngve Gullvik, Nord universitet

Category / based on: Research

Presentation format: Paper presentation (4E, in Norwegian) 

Framing 

Skolen i 2025 står overfor en økende andel elever som opplever skolevegring, mobbing, psykososiale utfordringer og manglende mestring. Dette gjelder særlig i yrkesfaglig utdanning, hvor frafallstallene er høye og mange unge risikerer å falle utenfor både skole og arbeidsliv. Et utrygt eller lite inkluderende læringsmiljø svekker elevenes motivasjon, tilhørighet og psykiske helse. Den nye opplæringsloven (2024) forsterker skolens ansvar for å sikre et trygt og inkluderende miljø, samt å gi tilpassa opplæring som fremmer læring, utvikling og deltagelse for alle elever. 

Methodology 

Studien bygger på kvalitative, semistrukturerte intervjuer med erfarne yrkesfaglærere fra ulike programområder. Analysen følger en tematisk tilnærming med fokus på hvordan lærerne beskriver sin praktisering og forståelse av VfL i både faglige og relasjonelle prosesser. Undersøkelsen analyserer hvordan tilbakemeldinger, dialog, vurderingskriterier og elevmedvirkning brukes som verktøy for tilpassa opplæring og sosial integrering, og hvordan lærerne erfarer at VfL påvirker elevenes motivasjon.

Results or expected outcomes 

Funnene indikerer at systematisk og relasjonelt orientert bruk av VfL kan ha betydelig positiv effekt på tilpasset læring som fører til at elevene opplever mestring, motivasjon og tilhørighet. Lærerne beskriver at VfL styrker relasjonen mellom lærer og elev, bidrar til økt trygghet og gir elevene et klarere bilde av egen læringsprogresjon. VfL fungerer som en inkluderende praksis som særlig støtter elever med faglige eller sosiale utfordringer, og kan bidra til å forebygge negative spiraler. 

References

Kunnskapsdepartementet (2024). Opplæringsloven. 
Kunnskapsdepartementet (2017). Overordnet del – verdier og prinsipper for grunnopplæringen. 
Vurdering for læring og tilbakemeldingsforskning 
Black, P. & Wiliam, D. (1998). Assessment and Classroom Learning. Assessment in Education. 
Hattie, J. & Timperley, H. (2007). The Power of Feedback. Review of Educational Research. 
Engh, R. & L. Gran. (2021). Vurdering for læring i skolen - på vei mot en bærekraftig og demokratisk læringskultur. Cappelen Damm Akademisk. 
Kluger, A. & DeNisi, A. (1996). The Effects of Feedback Interventions on Performance. Psychological Bulletin. 

Utvikling av danning gjennom praksis - utfordringer og muligheter i yrkesfaglige utdanningsprogram

Author(s): Åse Nedrebø Bruvik, Høgskulen på Vestlandet & Grete Haaland, Oslomet
Category / based on: Work in progress
Presentation format: Paper presentation (4E, in Norwegian)

Framing 

Hensikten med forskningsarbeidet er å utvikle kunnskap om krav til danning (Klafki, 2014) for fagarbeidere i henhold til læreplanverket (LK20) og om konsekvenser av kravene for innhold og arbeidsmåter i yrkesopplæringen. Fokus rettes mot yrkesfaglærerrollen som leder av læringsarbeidet ved yrkesfaglige utdanningsprogram. 
Problemstilling: Hvordan kan yrkesfaglærerne lede opplæringen for å utdanne fagarbeidere som har danning i tråd med arbeidslivets og samfunnets uttrykte behov i Læreplanverket (LK20).
1.    Hvordan beskrives kravene til danning for fagarbeidere i læreplanverket?
2.    Hva kreves av yrkesdidaktiske kompetanse for at elevene skal utvikle danning gjennom praksis?

Methodology  

Vi vil gjennomføre dokumentanalyse av læreplanverket og andre sentrale dokumenter, hvor nasjonale føringer for yrkesopplæringen beskrives.Utdanningsdirektoratet, Kunnskapsdepartementet, Kompetanse Norge og andre relevante nasjonale og internasjonale kilder, som omhandler danning og kompetanse for framtiden, er aktuelle. Kategoriene i den kvalitative analysen utformes på bakgrunn av det som fremstår som sentralt  i dokumentene for elevenes utvikling av danning (Silverman, 2020). 

Results or expected outcomes 

Gjennom dokumentanalysen forventer vi å finne svar på hvilken danning elever skal utvikle på sin vei mot å kvalifisere seg som fagarbeidere og hvilken betydning det kan ha for lærerrollen. Vi forventer å finne svar på hvordan yrkesfaglæreren kan lede opplæring for at elevene skal kunne utvikle danning i tråd med læreplanverket. Resultatet skal gi grunnlag for å drøfte og vurdere eventuelle endringsbehov i yrkesfaglærerutdanningene, men også for fellesfaglærer i yrkesfaglig utdanningsprogram. 

References

Kunnskapsdepartementet. (2017b). Verdier og prinsipper for grunnopplæringen  overordnet del av læreplanverket. Regjeringen. https://www.regjeringen.no/no/dokumenter/verdier-og- prinsipper-for-grunnopplaringen/id2570003/
Meld. St. 28. (2015–2016). Fag – Fordypning – Forståelse: En fornyelse av Kunnskapsløftet.Kunnskapsdepartementet. https://www.regjeringen.no/no/dokumenter/meld.-st.-28-20152016/id2483955/ 
Klafki, W. (2014) Dannelsesteori og didaktikk – nye studier.  Forlaget Klim
Silverman, D. (Ed.). (2020). Qualitative research (5th ed.). Sage.

Profesjonsutvikling i profesjonelle læringsfellesskap i yrkesfag

Author(s): Merete C. Rekdahl & Solfrid Nymark, OsloMet

Category / based on: Work in progress

Presentation format: Paper presentation (4E, in Norwegian)

Framing 

Rektorer i videregående skoler skal sikre kvalitet og relevans i yrkesfaglig opplæring gjennom profesjonelle læringsfellesskap (PLF).Basert på tidligere forskning og en kvalitativ spørreundersøkelse blant rektorer, utforsker vi hvordan rektorene kan fremme kollektiv organisasjonsutvikling og styrke interne og eksterne læringsfellesskap fra et yrkesfaglig perspektiv. Målet er å forstå hvordan skolen kan bidra til en relevant, praktisk og sammenhengende yrkesopplæring som møter både elevenes og arbeidslivets forventninger. Gjennom dette undersøker vi hvordan rektorer tilrettelegger for at yrkesfaglærerne deltar aktivt i skolens profesjonsfellesskap. 

Methodology 

Studien bygger på en kvalitativ spørreundersøkelse blant rektorer ved videregående skoler som tilbyr yrkesfaglige utdanningsprogram. Funnene er analysert tematisk med støtte i forskningsdesignprinsipper fra Creswell (2018). Tilnærmingen kombinerer empiriske funn og teoretisk rammeverk for å tolke organisatoriske mønstre og dilemmaer. Utvalget omfatter både rene yrkesfaglige videregående skoler og skoler med både yrkesfag og studieforberedende utdanningsprogram.

Results or expected outcomes 

Funnene viser at skolene arbeider systematisk med organisasjonsutvikling. Samtidig nedprioriteres yrkesfaglæreres profesjonsutvikling på enkelte skoler. Det kan forstås ut fra at rektor må balansere hensynet til enkeltpersoner og fellesskap, til styring og deltakelse, og til struktur og kultur for å unngå fragmentering og manglende sammenheng. Når profesjonelle læringsfellesskap bygger på tillit og felles mål, øker sammenheng, relevans og kvalitet.

References

Akkerman, S. F. & Bakker, A. (2012). Crossing boundaries between school and work during apprenticeships. Vocations and Learning, 5(2), 153-173. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12186-011-9073-6

Creswell, J. W. & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative & mixed methods approaches (5. utg.). SAGE Publications. 

Jenssen, M. M. F. & Nordahl, T. (2022). Profesjonelle læringsfellesskap og læreres undervisningspraksis. Acta Didactica Norden, 16(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.5617/adno.8144

Leonardsen, J. K. (2021). One size fits nobody: En casestudie av yrkesfaglæreres deltakelse i kompetanse-utviklingsarbeid i videregående skole. Nordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 11(2), 1-24. https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.211121 

Symposium: Case Studies of an R&D-Project on Collaboration between Swedish VET and WBL-Enterprises for Enhanced Vocational Knowing

Author(s): Viveca Lindberg, Stockholm University; Janne Kontio, Stockholm University;

Camilla Gåfvels, University of Arts, Craft and Design; Mija Jansson, STLS & Spånga gymnasium; Susanna Holdar, STSL & S:t Eriks gymnasium & Annika Hemingstam, Realgymnasiet 

Category / based on: Research

Presentation format: Symposium (4F, in English) 

Chair: Franz Kaiser, University of Rostock 

Discussant: Susanne Gustavsson, University of Gothenburg

General symposium abstract 

Since the 1990s, Swedish upper secondary vocational education and training (USVET) programmes of three years’ duration have included 15 weeks of work-based learning (WBL). A formal requirement is that WBL is carried out in collabora-tion with schools in order to realise curriculum objectives related to vocational knowing. From the outset, this arrangement has been associated with recurring challenges, as few enterprises have a tradition of assuming educational respon-sibility of this kind. Moreover, despite long-standing policy expectations, research on school–workplace collaboration in WBL is limited and fragmented, addressing different VET programmes, regions and time periods. As a result, recent policy ini-tiatives aimed at strengthening WBL tend to rely on models derived from “success stories” in countries with different traditions of partnership, or on normative as-sumptions rather than empirically grounded knowledge.

This Symposium is based on a R&D-project that functions as an umbrella initia-tive, funded by Stockholm Teaching & Learning Studies. VET teachers from differ-ent schools and vocational programmes contribute case studies focusing on mapping, analysing and developing local practices of school–WBL collaboration, with particular attention to aspects of vocational knowing identified as in need of further development.

Contributing abstracts: 

2. Ethical dilemmas in professional practice for aspiring animal caretakers with focus on dog keeping

The dog sector is one of the fastest growing sectors within the Swedish animal care industry (Djurbranschens Yrkesnämnd, 2022). In 2025 the Swedish National Agency for Education made Dog Studies a compulsory subject in the Natural Resource Use Programme, orientation Animal [pet] Care. This national orientation recruits the largest share of applicants (≈33%), despite the programme’s small overall size (recruiting 3.8% of all USVET students). The aim of this study is to highlight the potential ethical gap that may arise when students encounter practices during workplace-based learning that do not always align with the ethics conveyed in school-based teaching. 

Method: semistructured, qualitative interviews with supervisors were analaysed for patterns of similarity and variation in perceptions re-garding ethics in dog keeping, as well as the demands and expectations placed on students.

The tentative findings concern workplace rules for interactions with dogs, applied training principles, and whether modifying clients’ dogs’ behavior is considered part of professional practice. There is consensus on the importance of low arousal in dogs; however, approaches differ. In line with the school’s values, most workplaces report an evidence-based approach, grounded in scientific role models and environmental adjustments to facilitate successful outcomes, whereas one workplace diverges by relying on leadership and dominance theories. Based on these themes, conclusions about gaps and potential needs for development as well as identification of mutual responsibilities of the school respective workplaces for closing these gaps are presented. 

3. Instructors – invisible but important actors in in the formation of Swedish animal care givers

Instructors constitute a group of paraprofessional staff employed as animal care providers across all agricultural orientations in the Natural Resources Programme (NRP), one of the Swedish upper secondary VET programmes. Their work primarily concerns the care of animals in school-based facilities. Although instructors are occasionally mentioned in reports and research, they are typically discussed in other fields, such as sports, and searches in Swedish and international databases reveal a scarcity of research specifically addressing this staff group.

In a previous R&D project (Christidis et al., 2024), we found that instructors also played an important role in mathematics education. Building on these findings, observations of instructors’ work with students, complemented by interviews with them, indicated that animal care providers contribute substantially to students’ vocational formation in preparing them for workplace-based learning (WBL) – a contribution to students’ vocational Bildung (Lindberg & Hemingstam, 2023).

This paper reports on a review on historical traces of how this staff group became involved in vocational education and training (VET). Searches were conducted in Swedish and international databases and in grey literature like Swedish governmental reports related to decisions on the historical development of agricultural VET. Despite constituting a substantial proportion of staff within the NRP (32% of the total staff, N = 413, nationally), findings specifically addressing their work are virtually non-existent. 

When mentioned in reports, instructors are associated with students’ positive evaluations but otherwise not mentioned (Göransson & Lundqvist, 2019). Finally, the study explores whether similar paraprofessional actors exist in comparable VET programmes in other Nordic countries. 

Symposium: Movement and maturity in Nordic VET systems: Follow up and theorizing current developments in the Nordic countries

Author(s): Hedvig Skonhoft Johannesen, OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University; Elsa Eiríksdóttir, University of Iceland; Maarit Virolainen, University of Jyväskylä; Stephen Billett, Griffith University; Arnt Louw, Aalborg University; Per Andersson, Linköping University; Franz Kaiser, Rostock University 

Category / based on: Research 
Presentation format: Symposium (4G, in English) 

Chair: Franz Kaiser, Professor, University of Rostock, Germany

Discussant: Stephen Billett, Professor, Griffith University, Australia.

General symposium abstract 

This symposium on Movements and maturity of the VET-systems in the Nordic countries will discuss preliminary findings from research on maturity dimensions of Nordic VET. These maturity dimensions of vocational education comprise governed systems with a range of stakeholders. Prevalent are structures suited for education and training providing the labour market with a skilled workforce, yet allowing for innovation, creativity, and human flourishing. 

The work in progress scientific papers focus on discussing the conceptual framework about these maturity dimensions in VET. We continue with five mini case studies from the different Nordic national contexts, where we theorize on the central concept of maturity in VET systems (Billett, 2013) its relevance and playing out differently in the respective Nordic countries. The symposium continues the debate in exploring themes evolving from each VET-system in the five Nordic countries. Further, theorizing about how these themes and developmental traits could be anchored and explored through theoretical lenses concerning the dimensions of what constitutes a mature VET system. 

Organization of the symposium:

Introduction: Stephen Billett on conceptualising maturity of VET systems. Short contributions from each Nordic country: Elsa Eiríksdóttir (IS), Maarit Virolainen (FI), Hedvig Skonhoft Johannesen (NO), Arnt Louw (DK), Per Andersson (SE) and Franz Kaiser.

Contributing abstracts: 

1. Maturity, reforms and Finnish VET  system by Maarit Virolainen, senior research, Ph.d, University of Jyväskylä

Finnish education has been characterised by a commitment to the egalitarian and inclusive aims shared by Nordic welfare states. In the context of vocational education and training (VET), this has been reflected by enabling progression to higher education and enhancing an inclusive approach, as well as by extending compulsory education to the age of 18. The maturity of the VET system in terms of serving diverse student interests and developing responsiveness to the world of work has been promoted by measures such as the continuous development of the national curriculum basis, quality assurance and evaluation, and the adoption of a networked governance approach to planning and implementing reforms. This approach involves various interest groups, such as employers, education providers, student groups and communities, in the early stages of planning and developing the system through legislation, governance and the national basis for curricula. This approach has been reflected in the preparation of legislation determining VET, as well as in recent pilots such as the regional governance pilot. 

Threats related to Maturity of VET in Finland

The development of follow-up measures and quality systems in vocational education and training (VET) allows for up-to-date information on VET outcomes in terms of graduate employment, student experience, and providers' capacities for developing VET. However, changes in government funding create obstacles to long-term strategic planning for VET institutions and their personnel. Societal changes relating to sustainability, challenges and digitalisation (Manufacturing 5.0) create a continuous demand to update curricula and enhance collaboration with the world of work and higher education. However, such developmental work is threatened if there is not sufficient active, ongoing discussion between various stakeholders.

2. Concepts and change and maturity of the VET system in Iceland by Elsa Eiríksdóttir, professor Ph.d., University of Iceland

Icelandic vocational education and training (VET) is organized as a dual, decentralized system situated within comprehensive upper secondary schools. Curricula is designed by the schools based upon national curriculum framework guidelines and occupational competency profiles. Although workplace learning is integral to most VET programs, recent policy shifts have increasingly transferred responsibility for securing and monitoring workplace placements from students to upper secondary schools. At the same time, the influence of occupational councils, which are comprised of industry and social partners in each sector, has been weakening. 

A mature VET system is conceptualized as one grounded in clear policy and regulatory frameworks, responsive to external and internal developments, built upon collaboration and trust, and offering high‑quality, attractive educational pathways. While Iceland’s national education policy to 2030 acknowledges the importance of VET, the absence of a coordinated VET-specific strategy, detailed action plans, or systematic follow‑up suggests limited progress toward greater maturity. Reactive initiatives, such as the 2022 report on admission denials, further highlight a tendency toward short-term, fragmented responses rather than long‑term planning. 

Recent proposed amendments to upper secondary legislation have strengthened the authority of schools over workplace learning, assessment, and quality assurance. This has raised concerns among industry stakeholders and social partners about reduced collaboration and involvement of the occupational councils. Although decentralized curriculum-making supports innovation and responsiveness to local needs, it also risks fragmentation and weakened engagement with the world of work. Overall, current trends indicate that Iceland’s VET system is not moving toward increased maturity and may be drifting further from collaborative governance structures.

3. Concepts, change and maturity of the VET system in Norway by Hedvig Skonhoft Johannesen, Professor Ph.d., OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University

Norway is an egalitarian society with contradictions between the rural and urban, which infuse vocational education and training. A mature VET system in Norway is related to the tripartite collaboration between the social partners. Maturity lies in well-established structures, evolving yet providing stability for VET students and apprentices in the labour market, anchored in the contents, and organization of VET in the two plus two model (Aakernes et al, 2022). Fifty percent of Norwegian youth start VET, a system characterized by flexibility, innovativeness of creating new knowledge, procedures and artefacts, and accordingly labour-market relevance and recognition. 

Possible threats to the maturity of the Norwegian VET system:

Lesser influence by the social partners could result in a more scholarly VET also impacting the competence and autonomy of the occupations (Jørgensen, 2018). Transformation into an OECD inspired outcome based VET, could prove instrumentalism. Increased requirements by industry are creating gaps for young people. The new module-based VET for adult learners is challenging quality as it borders between social inclusion strategy and fast-track VET. 

Theoretical concepts and constructs to be further elaborated are Young’s perspective on bringing knowledge back into VET curriculum (Young, 2008). Billett on the maturity of VET systems (2013) in comparative perspectives in the Nordic countries (Cedefop, 2022).

General programme & session programme on Thursday 11 June: 

Sessions on Thursday 11.6.2026 - NordYrk 2026

The session programme for Thursday 11.6.2026 include all paper and poster presentations, workshops and symposiums on the sessions 4 and 5.

Programme, NordYrk 2026

Here you can find the timetable for the general programme and the detailed session programme, including parallel sessions, of the NordYrk 2026.

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