Reform in Polish Vocational Education

Overview & Synopsis

The article presents the essential concept of reforms, implemented in Poland's education system since the early 1990s and some of their outcomes. Special attention is paid to one particular aspect of the reforms, i.e. structural diversification of the system, leading to diversification of education levels and corresponding diplomas. The article argues that this approach promotes better access to education since it takes account of young people's capabilities and educational aspirations. The article refers to selected aspects of the structural reform of post-primary education and its fundamental assumptions; it also highlights some effects of the implemented changes. Looking at the process of implementing a two-cycle structure of education (bachelor's and master's) in tertiary education, attention has been drawn to the difficulties connected with the social acceptance of the first degree of studies (bachelor's = licencjat), which, in the official rhetoric, have been referred to as vocational studies. (Contains 1 figure, 6 footnotes and 5 tables.)