Browsing by Author "Koskinen-Keipi, Minna-Mari"

This study aims to find the factors that have effected the decision to apply to vocational training in the field of craft and design. This study aimed to answer three research questions that involved students background, crafts and students’ goals of the training. The selection of crafts and the future goals of students have been partly studied in the past from the same perspectives. Based on previous studies it can be assumed that students background affects applying to vocational training. However, most of the previous studies have been made several years ago. The structure of craft and design vocational training and the prospects of employment have changed in recent years. Because of these changes the research results may differ from the previous results. The research was carried out at the Ikaalinen College of Crafts and Design in April 2019. The research material was collected with a paper questionnaire and an e-form. 44 artisan students responded to the survey of which 26 studied to become Arts and Crafts Course Instructor, 12 studied to become Clothing artisans and 6 studied to become Textile artisans. The questionnaire consisted of basic information questions, multiple choice questions and open questions. Multiple choice questions were analysed quantitatively, and open questions were analysed by categorising. The practice of handicrafts since childhood and growing in an environment where crafts were present had a greater impact on the choice of the craft profession than for example the profession of parents. The majority of students felt that crafts were congenial, but all of the students did not feel like crafts as a school subject inspired them to apply to craft and design vocational training. The majority of the respondents sought to learn civic skills related to crafts and to work in the handicraft sector. Reflecting on future goals was challenging for many students which was seen as in many “I can’t say” answers.