Digital practical vocational training during Corona-virus pandemic - A Norwegian experience

Abstract

This study focuses on how vocational teachers in the upper secondary school program Restaurant and Food Preparation conducted vocational training using digital teaching methods when schools/workshops were closed from March to June 2020. The research data has been obtained through the collection of 26 teaching exercises and subsequent in-depth interviews with six strategically selected teachers. The results indicate use of tree main methods: synchronous, asynchronous, and traditional exercises. The informants emphasize that there have been many challenges associated with, the choice of learning activities, guidance, and assessment methods. The role of the teacher changed and highlighted both a personal and professional need for closeness to the students. The vocational teachers indicate a steep learning curve in the use of digital teaching methods and see themselves continuing to use this knowledge in following up individual students, in reducing dropout, and in collaborating with colleagues.