The Emergent European Model in Skill Formation: Comparing Higher Education and Vocational Training in the Bologna and Copenhagen Processes
Journal
Sociology of Education
ISSN
0038-0407
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2012
Author(s)
Abstract (De)
Proposing an alternative to the American model, intergovernmental reform initiatives in Europe have developed and promote a comprehensive European model of skill formation. What ideals, standards, and governance are proposed in this new pan-European model? This model responds to heightened global competition among "knowledge societies" as it challenges national systems to improve. The authors thus compare this emergent European model with the historically influential models of Germany, France, Great Britain, and the United States. To what extent does the European model resemble these traditionally influential national models? The authors report findings of a theory-guided content analysis of official European policy documents in higher education and vocational training from 1998 to 2010. They find that while the European model is a bricolage that integrates diverse characteristics of influential models, the ambitious goals and standards codified in the twin Bologna and Copenhagen processes in higher education and vocational training offer a new model to compete internationally. Dozens of countries now seek to implement these principles. This comparative analysis finds different visions for the future of skill formation on both sides of the Atlantic.
Language
German
Keywords
Skill formation
educational model
Bologna process
Copenhagen process
Europeanization
Germany
France
Great Britain
United States
policy analysis
historical
comparative
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
American Sociological Association
Volume
85
Number
3
Start page
240
End page
258
Pages
19
Subject(s)
Division(s)
Eprints ID
243397