AN EXPLORATION OF THE CONCEPT OF QUALITY IN VOCATIONAL-EDUCATION AND TRAINING

One concept of 'quality' has evolved from management theory and seeks to offer a customer-driven approach to meeting market requirements. However, the application of this concept to vocational education and training has been problematic given both difficulties in defining the term and lack of consensus where definitions are offered. This article offers a concept of 'quality' which recognizes and promotes the centrality of the learner in the learning process and the role of educational providers in facilitating quality learning outcomes. It concludes that this view of quality is in line with the managerial tenets of total quality management and the liberal educational traditions which underpin notions of student autonomy.