Slovenia: conference on competence-oriented learning and teaching

Challenges and best practices in competence-based VET

Competence-based learning in Slovenia's vocational education and training (VET) system focuses on equipping learners with specific skills and competences required by the labour market. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students to meet professional requirements effectively. Such VET programmes also foster the integration of knowledge, skills, and attitudes, enabling individuals to navigate professional, social, and personal environments.

The conference focused on competence-oriented education and the key factors that influence its successful implementation. Speakers began by highlighting how the Modernisation of VET project addresses challenges stemming from technological advances, the emergence of new occupations, digitalisation, sustainability, and automation. However, the success of these initiatives depends heavily on providing teachers with the necessary tools and support to adapt to these changes. Participants for their part, concluded that leadership is a critical factor in ensuring successful implementation of updated VET curricula, new school-company models and new pedagogical and didactical approaches. 

Conference speakers delivered presentations showcasing international and national best practices, illustrating innovative approaches to the design and delivery of such education. Experts from the Netherlands and Germany provided international examples of competence-based education in VET schools.  The Dutch speaker provided insights into the Dutch vocational education system, highlighting the challenges of implementing new educational initiatives. He stressed that introducing multiple innovations simultaneously is not always the most effective approach. In his view, it is crucial to ensure that all stakeholders – teachers, school organisations, students, and other relevant parties – are thoroughly prepared and aligned for successful implementation.

The German presenters from the technical college ITECH (Beruftliche Schule Itech) spoke about revolutionising vocational education with a three-pillar approach emphasising self-directed learning, competence orientation, and individualisation. Combining open learning environments with digital infrastructure, this model fosters self-directed learning while teachers adopt ‘servant leadership’ roles as coaches and guides. Students actively shape their education by co-designing projects, defining success criteria, and choosing assessment formats. Addressing challenges like digital transformation, New Work, and 21st-century skills, ITECH prepares learners for the VUCA world and sustainable development, where ‘New learning meets new work to build the future’.

A Slovenian headteacher highlighted that rapid technological advancements are transforming the world, making 21st-century skills essential in education. The school fosters innovation by focusing on learning outcomes, a positive climate, and teacher development. Through collaboration, shared responsibility for quality, and a systematic approach, it drives continuous improvement. Successful teaching practices include individualiszed instruction, project-based learning, and research activities with real-world partnerships.

An engaging workshop: dialogue and collaboration

An interactive workshop was organised at the conclusion of the conference, providing an opportunity for participants to share insights and strategies for overcoming challenges in competence-based education. The topics covered curriculum design, interdisciplinary approaches, and integrating technology into teaching. 

Pivotal questions and future directions

The conference prompted some important questions, including whether competence-oriented learning can be universally applied across all vocational contexts and how institutions can ensure its success. Participants engaged in discussions about the practicalities of adopting such a model, with particular focus on regions with limited resources or limited access to teacher training programmes.

Commitment to progress

The event concluded with a joint commitment to promote competence-oriented education as a valuable tool for preparing students for dynamic careers and lifelong personal growth. The organisers suggested that collaboration among stakeholders would be beneficial in exploring this vision further. Through insightful discussions and practical examples, the conference reinforced Slovenia’s dedication to modernising its vocational education system, paving the way for a more adaptable and future-ready workforce.

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• Druga tematska konferenca projekta Modernizacija poklicnega izobraževanja: »V kompetence usmerjeno učenje in poučevanje: vizija ali iluzija? ‘[Second Thematic Conference of the "Modernisation of vocational education’ project: ‘Competence-oriented learning and teaching: vision or illusion?’]