Vocational students ‘do better’
Undergraduates who take up a place at university from a vocational
background get better degrees than those coming from the A-level route, research says.
A study of 216 graduates found those with vocational qualifications,
such as NVQs, were awarded a better class of degree than their A-level peers.
The research said these students were better equipped for independent
study.
The report, from Edge Hill University, raised doubts about the validity
of A-levels for predicting future success.
But the research also indicated that students coming from the
traditional A-level route were less likely to drop out of university.
Doubts over A-levels
Co-author of the report, Dr. Lesley Sumner, said students from
non-traditional routes were often better at planning and dealing with stress.
“This study could prove to be a real turning point into how A-levels
are perceived and the kudos that is given to vocational courses,” said Dr. Sumner.
“It has been long assumed that the most effective way to achieve a
good degree is to sit A-levels first. However, this research indicates that this is not
the case.
“Whilst there are undoubted benefits to sitting A-levels, getting a
good degree is not necessarily one of them and it may be that we need an in-depth review
of how to help our students achieve the best possible degree from university.”
A spokesman from the Department for Education and Skills said A-levels
were a respected qualification.
“We are committed to ensuring that every young person reaches their
full potential, with opportunities to learn in ways that motivate and stretch, that
develop interests and provide routes to success,” he said.
“This is why we have placed an increased emphasis on vocational
education through our 14-19 reforms while ensuring standards are maintained at A-level.”
The research focused on students from Edge Hill University, which has a
higher proportion of vocational students.
The researchers hope to expand the research to other institutions.
Story from BBC NEWS
|