This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of employment-linked education programs in vocational high schools (VHS) in Korea, focusing on their impact on students’ workplace adaptability and employment retention. The research includes survey and interview data collected from VHS students, graduates, teachers, and HR officers in SMEs. Employing Kirkpatrick's evaluation model, the study assessed satisfaction, learning outcomes, and behavior change. Results showed that voluntary motivation for VHS enrollment led to significantly higher program satisfaction and job performance. Graduates with one-year work experience demonstrated the highest job applicability, highlighting the short-term benefits of such programs. However, effects tended to decline by the second year, indicating a need for post-employment retraining systems. Text mining analysis confirmed that 'information', 'field experience', and 'skills application' were key themes linked to program effectiveness. Teachers and industry professionals emphasized the importance of expanding customized internships and mentoring programs. Policy implications include building a regional employment-data platform, expanding continuing education pathways, and reinforcing government support for high school-industry collaboration. These findings provide strategic directions for improving vocational training and supporting sustainable employment for high school graduates in regional SMEs.
Lee et al. (Thu,) studied this question.