Understanding School in Germany

Made in Germany:
The whole world envies us because
of our integrated system of career
and vocational education and training
(duale Ausbildung).
14.1
The world is diverse, and in every country occupational
education and training is different.
Example I: In some countries, occupations are learned within the family, for
instance from older relatives. Advantage: You don’t have to apply. You only
need to take advantage of family ties. School-leaving qualifications are not
so important. Disadvantage: Young people do not have any kind of certificate
evincing that they have actually learned a particular trade.
Example 2: In some countries, occupations are learned over
many years only at some sort of school. Advantage: A lot of
theoretical knowledge is learned and students get a diploma
or certificate. Disadvantage: Little or no practical experience.
Often working at a company is unfamiliar and difficult.
Example 3: In some countries, young people learn their
occupation through on the job training or apprenticeships.
Advantage: A lot of practical skill and a certificate. Disadvantage:
Less theoretical knowledge about the occupation.
14.2
Germany has a unique recipe: The integrated system of career
and vocational education and training (duale Ausbildung).
Germany has developed an education system which is unique in the world:
the integrated system of career and vocational education and training
(duale Ausbildung).
Integrated education and training takes place parallel at vocational school
and at a company. This facilitates learning theoretical knowledge and practical
skills at the same time. Advantage: Much practical skill, theoretical
knowledge, and a diploma or certificate. Disadvantage: You must apply,
otherwise there is no disadvantage.
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