The implementation model of communication channels in practical education at higher vocational institutions while ensuring social distancing

Abstract

During the transition from 2019 to 2020, the incredible odyssey of humanity in the fight against the pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus began. Social values changed in an instant, and social relations collapsed. As the education system is strongly intertwined with other systems, it was also impacted by such changes.
As part of the changes, we must also point out the concrete problems in establishing and the ongoing implementation of compulsory practical education/on-the-job training (PE/OJT ¬– PRI) in higher vocational schools (HVS - VSŠ). HVS programs in the Slovenian Qualifications Framework (SQF – SOK) are positioned at the 6/1 level; they are evaluated with 120 credit points (ECTS – KT) and last two years. The crucial part of achieving the appropriate professional and theoretical competencies is an essential part of the study process, which includes PRI in the company and covers 800 hours or a duration of 20 weeks.
Mentors from individual companies, with whom interdependent cooperation is required in the education system at HVS, also play an essential role in implementing the OJT. We established a new model of communication channels, which include virtual visits to organizations where we conducted interviews with mentors in companies and with students in actual workplaces.