A Mixed Method Approach Enabling the Triangulation Technique: Case Study in Vietnam

Abstract

An exploratory study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of various key stakeholders about the current vocational education and training (VET) sector in Vietnam using three methods. The quantitative method adopted was a data gathering questionnaire aimed to measure students’ perceptions of the VET sector and identify factors that impact students’ intentions in enrolling and completing VET programs in Vietnam. The qualitative method was then used to explore other views about the VET sector from the students’ parents using the open-ended interviews. The third approach used a nominal group technique to investigate other key stakeholders’ perceptions of Vietnam’s VET sector. Through triangulation, the reliable findings of the research indicated that the “real” issue impacting the VET sector was the relationship between VET providers and industries. This should be considered and researched carefully in the design of a VET curriculum. In addition, this study revealed that a web of influences was created which impacted significantly in both positive and negative ways on the students’ perception of the VET sector.