Selektivität beim Zugang in Weiterbildungsmaßnahmen : die Bedeutung individueller und struktureller Faktoren am Beispiel der "Initiative zur Flankierung des Strukturwandels"

"This paper investigates the selectivity of vocational training courses on Germany's labor market. We consider the case of a special program ('IFlaS'), which provides vocational training for low-skilled unemployed. The program aims at alleviating the foreseeable shortage of skilled workers in specific sectors, regions or professions. From a theoretical point of view, investments in persons with low skills are expected to be less promising and to display lower returns than investments in high-skilled workers. Against this background, we analyze the factors systematically determining the probability of participation in the special training program IFlaS. To this end, we use survey data from participants and a control group and combine it with administrative data from the labor administration. The empirical results suggest that persons with a relatively high attachment to the labor market are more likely to be allocated to the courses. Persons with longer regular employment spells or longer duration in the unemployment insurance system exhibit a significantly higher probability of participation. By contrast, receiving means-tested social benefits in the past reduce participation chances systematically. Cognitive and non-cognitive competencies also play a role: Computer skills and a high amount of cultural capital increase the probability of participation. In general, our results suggest selectivity towards 'good risks' in the program." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))