Vocational education is central to the plans of policy makers around the world; it underpins the development of the poorest economies, and the continued competitiveness of the richest. Technical and Vocational Education and Training debates the key issues:* How far can the same principles be applied to vocational learning in universities, colleges, schools and the workplace?* Do the needs of learners and the needs of the economy always coincide? Should teachers focus on the delivery of skills or the development of cultures?* What will determine whether what is learnt corresponds to what is taught?* Who are the stakeholders in vocational learning, and can they all be satisfied at once?* What does it really mean to say that vocational provision is a kind of investment?Drawing on contemporary, internationally-significant case studies in water education, management education and education for sustainable development along with UNESCO's International Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, Gough provides a challenging discussion.

"'Stephen Gough has written a subtle and clever book, crafted with his characteristic style and wit. He critically examines the idea of investment in technical and vocational education and training from a range of perspectives and possibilities, exploring literal and metaphoric nuances as they relate to both individuals and society. This is at once both a theoretical and a practical text, and an optimistic one. So, if you're ready to be challenged and stimulated, and are open to thinking about TVET in novel ways, this book's for you.' (William Scott, Professor of Education, University of Bath, UK)"

Stephen Gough is Head of UNESCO-UNEVOC Centre in the Department of Education at the University of Bath, UK.