SYSTEMIC QUALITY MANAGEMENT IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING: METHODOLOGICAL FRAMEWORKS AND KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Abstract

Abstract: In the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and rapidly shifting labor market dynamics, the quality of Vocational Education and Training (VET) has emerged as a decisive factor in national economic competitiveness. This research paper explores the theoretical and practical dimensions of quality management within VET institutions. It challenges the traditional, input-oriented approach to education, advocating instead for a holistic, outcome-based quality assurance framework. The study analyzes the transition from compliance-based inspections to continuous improvement models, such as Total Quality Management (TQM) and the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework (EQAVET).