Vasiliki Brinia

Adult vocational training and the project technique

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight the benefits of implementing the Project method, by applying the technique in adult vocational training environments.Design/methodology/approach – While the central idea of this method stems from Greek antiquity, the method itself began to evolve within American pragmatism based on the principles of cognitive and Gestalt psychology. In the present paper, the assessment process of the Project method was undertaken with the multi‐methodical approach and use of combined levels of triangulation to determine whether it can be applied to a group of adults, training in the subject of marketing communications.Findings – Since the projected conditions from the bibliography are observed through the implementation of the Project technique it appears that adult trainees activate learning skills and competencies of emotional intelligence. Thus, the creation of knowledge operates as a “spiral” process starting from the individual level and expanding to the business an...

High school principals as leaders: styles and sources of power

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present the characteristics of leadership (style adopted, sources of power exercised and factors affecting leadership) of high school principals in Greece. Design/methodology/approach – In total, 235 school principals were surveyed using questionnaires. These questionnaires assessed how often they adopted specific practices while managing their school, in relevance to their educational, managerial and administrative duties. Thus, the researchers were able to assess the leadership style of the principals (transactional or transformational) and the sources of power exercised (reward, punishment, expertise, example and information). Findings – The majority of school principals in Greece prefer the transformational leadership style instead of the transactional one and they frequently exercise the power of information. There is a strong positive link between the transformational leadership style and the tendency to exercise the power of information. Furthermore, it is ...

Adult trainers in Greece: qualifications, teaching effectiveness, and competency-based selection

Abstract The purpose of the research has been to investigate the views of adult education trainers with regards to the qualifications which form part of the ‘effective adult trainer profile.’ Trainers in Adult Education were asked to express their views on the specific qualifications (e.g. work experience, studies, etc.) which increase (and to what extent) their effectiveness, while they perform their training duties. Moreover, since these trainers have participated in several selection processes when they seek work, they have been asked to express their views regarding the extent to which the specific selection tools they have encountered, have measured their competences in a reliable and valid manner. The question was whether they trust the tools (such as gleaning qualifications from application forms and transcripts, interviews, references, etc.) that Adult Education organisations employ during their selection processes. The research has followed an interdisciplinary approach, combining the Adult Education and Human Resource Management fields. This is an original approach, given that these issues have not been addressed to any significant extent by the academic community in Greece. The research has followed a quantitative approach (questionnaires administered to a sample of 271 adult trainers), deriving its data from an EU subsidised programme called ‘Adult Education in basic information technology skills, Heron-2.’ This programme took place in Greece nationwide and was effective from November 2008 to November 2011. The research showed that the qualification that adult trainers value the most is their teaching experience within the groups of adult trainees. It also showed that among all tools of personnel selection, they consider that the process of gleaning qualifications from application forms and transcripts is the most reliable and valid way to measure their ability to teach.

The Use of Greek Literature Through Action-Research in Teaching 'Principles of Economic Theory' in Secondary Education Level in Greece: A Case Study

Purpose: The current project evaluates an interdisciplinary approach to teaching economic theory through literature, in the context of Greek secondary education (Senior High School). The research uses the timeless modern Greek novel The Price and Money from Konstantinos Theotokis, in teaching the lesson “Principles of Economic Theory” in the 3rd year of senior high school. The main research aim is to investigate the extent to which literature can contribute to the improvement of teaching and student learning. Methodology: The basic method that is applied is the case study approach. Moreover, a range of research techniques, such as the questionnaire, observation alongside action research were employed in order to triangulate the research data.Findings: The teaching approach proved to be an unprecedented experience for students that aided the arousal of their interest and participation, instigating learning motives. The actual teaching method also contributed to a more effective examination of economic phenomena allowing the students to interpret economic concepts through literature and to relate them to the societal forces and the economic interests that define them.

Developing a system for training unemployed adults at the VTC (vocational training centres) in Greece

Purpose – The educational methodology of lifelong learning and adult education ensures human employment, the progress of society and peaceful social coexistence. Programs of vocational training for unemployed people or for groups with special needs are the common ways to ensure that employment inequalities are diminished and job opportunities for a better life are provided to the members of the community. Obviously, the standards of such education are of a great importance. If high standards are ensured, better results are achieved. The purpose of this paper is to document the development of a prototype system that will ensure high quality standards in the operation of a vocational training centre (VTC).Design/methodology/approach – Research was carried out among students, teachers and staff of a specific VTC in Xanthi, aiming at specifying the key factors that influence the quality of the training provided.Findings – The results of the research are presented and in relation to the answers given to specia...