A case study of a Turkish vocational high school, and the challenges for teachers

Abstract

This case study reports on challenges and professional perspectives of vocational high school teachers working in a socially disadvantaged in rural Turkey. The data were gathered from 14 participants, including teachers, administrators and counsellor through individual and focus group interviews and classroom observations. The analysis found that students in Turkish vocational high schools are negatively positioned, this was evidenced in poor student engagement and the struggles of classroom management experienced by teachers. The perceived problems and needs showed some differences across teachers who provide academic and vocational courses. The findings imply that there is a need for social justice advocacy for rural vocational high school students by fostering teachers and improving the system by policy development.