Grade retention, prosocial behaviour, and difficulties (SDQ) in vocational education

Abstract

Vocational education has made changes regarding skills, which currently tend to be more transversal. DGEEC data (2020) concerns positive associations between some characteristics of students of vocational courses and sociodemographic variables. Indeed, in this study, we evaluate the performance and the difficulties (SDQ) of students from vocational courses according to grade retention. 139 students aged 15 to 18 have participated in the study. They were attending the 10th, 11th and 12th grade. For data collection, a socio-demographic questionnaire and the (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were used. Data processing was carried out using the quantitative methodology. The results of this study indicate that students with grade retention score higher on emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity/inattention, and peer relationship problems when compared to their peers who do not have grade retention. The results show a slight deficit in prosocial behaviour and the mainly difficulty regards the behaviour and relationship with colleagues.