Advancing Secondary Vocational Education System: A Case Study of Korea’s Meister High School
摘要
In Korean society, where academic achievement is often excessively prioritized, vocational education and training has long faced societal stigma. In response, the Ministry of Education introduced the “Meister High School” (MHS) program, inspired by the German concept of “Meisters” (masters). The program aims to cultivate a professional, technically skilled workforce prepared for quality employment immediately upon graduation. Unlike regular vocational high schools, MHS operates with full autonomy in designing curricula and school systems to align with local industry needs. Additionally, it offers comprehensive student support, including free tuition, dormitory accommodations, scholarships, and a structured career pathway for higher education after workforce entry. Since its launch in 2010, MHS has demonstrated success in equipping students with expertise and skills, facilitating smooth transitions into the labor market, and enhancing social mobility. Therefore, this chapter examines the case study of Korea’s MHS model by exploring the fundamental framework, highlighting its flexible, industry-aligned curriculum, partnerships among schools, employers, and the government, robust performance management systems, and collaborative policy support. Investigating the MHS program within the context of Korea’s labor market and policy environment can deepen our understanding of the key factors behind its competitiveness and offer insights for adapting models to diverse national contexts.