Transitioning from VET to HE in hospitality and tourism studies: VET grades as an indicator of performance in HE.

Abstract

After reviewing research concerning student transition from Vocational Education and Training (VET) to Higher Education (HE), which mostly focussed on enablers, this paper examined the role of graded assessment within a competency based training (CBT) framework and its relationship to subsequent performance in HE studies. From this background, the key question was derived; is there a relationship between grades awarded under CBT and HE academic performance? The academic results of 34 students were reviewed for both VET and HE studies, and correlations analysed using the Spearman Rho calculator. A Likert style survey was used to gauge student perceptions as to their investment in assessment activities and the extent to which VET studies prepared them for HE. Results indicated that a positive correlation existed between performance in VET studies and those in HE. This correlation was supported in that most students reported that they did attempt to achieve the highest grades possible across both sectors. It was concluded that using VET grades as predictors of success in HE was valid for this cohort and that students believed that VET assisted in preparing them for HE studies. The findings add to the argument calling for retention and indeed refinement of grading within the CBT system.