An Exploration of the High-End Path of the Development of Higher Vocational Education in China from Teachers' Perspectives

Abstract

In recent years, China's higher vocational education has made remarkable progress, but faces some challenges in the process of development. This study aims to explore the effective development of higher vocational education, especially in terms of teachers' professional development and educational innovation. Through online semi-structured interviews with four teachers in higher vocational schools, their perceptions of higher vocational education and their specific implementation (implementation methods, implementation content, benefits experienced and difficulties faced in implementing higher vocational education) were examined. The study found that teachers encouraged students to analyses problems from multiple perspectives and develop integrative and critical thinking skills. By providing internships in relevant industries, teachers helped students gain practical experience and skill development, and helped them clarify their career goals and directions. However, the study also revealed the difficulties encountered by teachers in implementing higher vocational education, such as China's exam-based education system and some parents' and the public's inherent perceptions of higher vocational teachers, schools and education, as well as students' sense of responsibility. The study also mentioned teachers' lack of insight and inadequate teaching methods and skills in implementing higher vocational education. Therefore, this study argues that higher education schools and society should address the issue of inadequate funding and training. Despite the limitations of this study, it provides research perspectives for future studies to explore the benefits of implementing higher vocational education and the challenges faced by parents or students, and to promote diversity and innovation in the implementation of higher vocational education.