Modularized vocational training for adults: Supporting entry to skilled employment through guidance in network structures

The world of work and therefore companies and employees are increasingly being challenged by megatrends such as a shortage of skilled workers. One important strategy of the federal government in Germany is to increase the proportion of skilled workers. This can be achieved, among other things, with the concept of modularized vocational training for adults by using "partial qualifications". The article explains the aims, functions and actual developments of the concept of "partial qualifications". Based on a literature review and case studies, the question of how guidance regarding partial qualifications takes place will be the focus of the paper. In the second step, preliminary results of an empirical study from a current European Union (EU) project on vocational guidance in networks are presented. Case studies are used to illustrate examples of good practice in guidance in networks.