Network of Excellence for Applied Research in VET

NEARVET

Vocational education and training faces profound challenges. It must meet the demands of the future, which arise from economic, technological, and social changes and the Action Plan for Digital Education 2021-2027.

The NEARVET project responds to these challenges with an innovative program for systematic research and development in the field of applied research in vocational education and training. EU countries must invest in their innovation systems at national and regional level in order to be competitive in a globalized economy. Furthermore, applied research and knowledge dissemination are essential components of innovation. They are necessary to create a highly skilled and adaptable workforce and to support the commercialization of ideas that can increase productivity.

Goals and contents

The NEARVET project has developed an innovative program for systematic research and development in the field of applied research in vocational education and training. The aim was to promote cooperation between vocational training practitioners, stakeholders, and employers and to strengthen the role of vocational training in innovation, research, and development throughout the EU. It addressed the often unanswered question: “If applied research in vocational education and training is crucial, who are the applied researchers?” To answer this question, the NEARVET project planned the following:

Developing a methodological concept based on the latest state of the art in the joint development and validation of applied research methods in vocational education and training
Identifying, defining, and specifying the competencies required to effectively conduct applied research in vocational education and training
Creating and maintaining a community of practice that is anchored in a broad and relevant network and promotes the exchange of knowledge and innovation
Jointly creating and validating a set of practical resources and methods by establishing and promoting a digitally supported transnational platform
A comprehensive framework that supports transferability and sustainability in a long-term perspective

Project Results

The NEARVET Digital Hub provides a framework for practitioners involved in the further development of applied research in vocational education and training. It gives them the opportunity to exchange ideas for applied research projects, collaborate, seek partners, share knowledge, and transfer innovations.

The Digital Hub includes:

Digital and interactive learning materials and resources, including a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) that teaches the necessary skills based on the NEARVET Blueprint.

To the digital learning materials

Peer learning, exchange, and capacity-building measures with and for vocational training instructors, teachers, facilitators, managers, brokers, and their colleagues in the private sector, business representatives, universities, and research institutes. They will be members of the NEARVET Digital Community of Practice.

To the Digital Community of Practice

An open space for applied research resources where relevant news, updates, and scientific productions can be shared with and by our NEARVET community.

To the Open Applied Research Resources