Collaborative research contributions for the co-design of strategic guidance plans: The case of Andalusian Vocational Education and Training (FPA).

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The development of quality career guidance requires the collaborative and coordinated action of different stakeholders. On the one hand, this paper aims to explore the possibilities of collaborative research in diagnosing the situation of guidance in vocational education and training. On the other hand, it aims to show the applicability of collaborative research in the processes of co-design and co-production of proposals for innovation and improvement of guidance in VET. METHOD: For this purpose, a collaborative research approach with a single case design Type II (Yin, 2014) is used, which takes place in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia. The participants in this research were organised into 4 groups: driving group, expert panel, contrast group and research team. For the collection of information, an iterative process has been carried out through group sessions for the generation of creative ideas, inspired by the Design Thinking methodology, a contrast day and multimodal tools. The analysis process used was co-analysis, using the SWOT technique as a tool. RESULTS: Collaborative research is shown in this article as a methodology that favours the emergence of pedagogical spaces for the co-design of programmes and services within a framework of equity and social justice. DISCUSSION. The conclusions show the possibilities and richness of collaborative research in the development of spaces for dialogue where researchers, politicians and practitioners have an equal participation for the co-design of proposals to improve the provision of public services oriented towards social welfare.