Work-oriented and competence-based Curriculum Design in the German Dual Vocational and Education System

A reform in 1996 introduced a work-centred and competence-based turn in the school-based component of dual vocational education and training in Germany. The classic distinctions of 'theory equals school-based learning' and 'practical experience equals work-based learning in companies' are to be removed through the orientation of school-based content to the practical requirements of the vocational and professional work. In the article the underlying concept 'areas of learning' is described and contrasted to the competence-based approach in general education.