Young refugees in prevocational preparation classes: Who is moving on to the next step?

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Abstract

Since 2015, an enormous number of refugees have migrated to Germany. To obtain qualifi ed jobs, many of them attend prevocational preparation classes. The aims of these classes are mainly the acquisition of German language skills and preparation for subsequent vocational education and training. This paper examines (1) the transitions of young refugees after prevocational preparation classes and (2) what factors predict the transition to the next educational step. Using data from the fi rst two measurement points of a longitudinal survey (t1 during the prevocational preparation class and t2 one year later), we surveyed 333 students in Southwest Germany (82% male; mean age = 18.9 years). Instruments included an online questionnaire, an online test of cognitive ability, and an online test of German language skills. Approximately 37 percent of the students repeated the prevocational preparation class, whereas 60 percent moved on to the next educational step. German language skills at t1 and contact with people helping refugees (t1) predicted the probability of the transition to a “regular” educational pathway. Other variables, such as the educational background of the young refugees and of their parents, personality, motivation, and aspirations, had no significant effects. The findings can be interpreted in terms of the primary (language skills) and secondary eff ects of refugees’ ethnic background (information about the education system through contact with locals).

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

What strategies enhance career development for newcomers?

While evidence is limited, certain alternative pathways to career development can help improve newcomers’ workforce integration. Suggestive evidence shows that vocational training can contribute to workforce integration. Suggestive evidence shows that scholastic- and career-focused afterschool programs may improve students’ self-reported preparedness to enter the workforce. Moderately strong evidence shows that vocational training focused on goal…

About this study

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Free

INTERVENTION DURATION: Unspecified

INTERVENTION: English language training

INTERVENTION: Pre-vocational training

OUTCOME AREA: Workforce integration

POPULATION: Refugees

REGION OF ORIGIN OF PARTICIPANT(S): Multiple Regions

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Suggestive

TYPE OF STUDY: Suggestive evidence

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2021

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