Professional Competence in Vocational School Education: A Qualitative Research on Students' Expectations and Realised Experiences

This study aims to examine the expectations, experiences and challenges faced by vocational school students regarding the process of gaining vocational qualifications, with a particular focus on assessing the extent to which the education students receive in vocational schools is in line with the expectations of the labour market. The participants of the study consist of a total of 24 students enrolled in a Vocational School in eastern Turkey in the academic year 2023-2024. A semi-structured interview form was used as a data collection tool and the participants were carefully selected. The data obtained were subjected to content analysis and themes and sub-themes were formed. The findings of the study revealed that applied education is insufficient in vocational colleges and that students prefer more applied courses. The lack of adequate technical infrastructure was identified as an obstacle to their professional development. In addition, it was observed that students stated that the labour market requires extensive practical experience and that the current education system is not equipped to provide this. The importance of internships and field studies in gaining professional competence was emphasised, but it was stated that these areas also have their own shortcomings.