Assessing the quality of vocational education and training in Italy: empirical evidence and policy implications of the EQAVET framework
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61007/QdC.2026.1.412Keywords:
quality assurance, vocational training , evaluation, EQAVET, indicatorsAbstract
This paper provides a critical account of the main approaches to quality assessment in education and training, with a focus on vocational education and training (VET) and the Italian IFP system. Building on the limitations of traditional input/process metrics and on outcome-oriented perspectives (value-added and outcome-based approaches), it frames EQAVET as a policy device that combines learning outcomes, governance and accountability within a continuous improvement cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act). It then reconstructs the European evolution of the framework and its Italian implementation, characterised by multi-level governance with INAPP and Regions playing key roles. The paper maps the empirical coverage of the ten EQAVET indicators using major INAPP surveys, highlighting strengths (labour market outcomes and selected organisational quality dimensions) and gaps (completion, skill use and systematic skills needs assessment). Finally, it proposes a conceptual model linking inputs, intermediate variables and outcomes, and outlines econometric strategies and data infrastructures to strengthen impact evaluation and evidence-informed policy.
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