Markus, A M (1988) A research discrepancy model for building trades training programs. PhD thesis, University of Florida, USA.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop a research model to determine the variables influencing the discrepancy between the low placement of postsecondary building trades training programs graduates and the high demand for skilled craftsmen in the construction industry. The study was based on an investigation of the carpentry craft in Florida and the Provus Discrepancy Evaluation model. Two instruments were developed through a series of meetings and personal interviews. One instrument was mailed to 1079 contractors representing four major construction groups that hire carpenters. The second instrument was sent to all 31 postsecondary carpentry training program coordinators in Florida. Responses were received from 281 construction contractors (26%) and all 31 coordinators (100%). Six groups of research questions were answered to determine the significance of each variable on the supply/demand discrepancy. The Wilcoxon-rank-sum test indicated no significant difference (p $<$. 05) in placement procedures between high and low placement rate carpentry programs. Multivariate analysis of variance utilizing the Wilks' lambda criterion with post-hoc univariate comparisons using the Student-Newmans-Keuls test indicated significant differences in the perception of skills necessary for a skilled carpenter between the contractor group and the postsecondary training program coordinator group. Repeated measures one-way analysis of variance with post-hoc comparisons utilizing Fisher's LSD and Duncan's multiple range test indicated that contractors ranked community colleges as the least effective source supplying carpenters and as having a remote level of communication with industry. Formal meetings of the two groups was rated as the best method to improve communication. Program coordinators indicated that 23% of the graduates chose an alternative occupation; this was mainly attributed to low wages. Utilizing the Malcolm Provus Discrepancy Evaluation model, the variables determined most significant were incorporated into a research discrepancy model. The model in which the resources of the vocational education system were coordinated with the needs of the construction industry was recommended as the base for future studies of related building trades training programs.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Thesis advisor: | Hensel, J and Brown, B |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | building trades; carpenter; communication; education; future studies; skills; training; wages |
| Index terms: | investigation, future study, vocational education, craft worker, construction industry, variance, carpenter, program, building trade, construction contractor, multivariate analysis, wages, interview, placement, occupation |
| Subjects: | sociology, measurement and scaling, industry analysis, statistical analysis, management, software systems, data collection methods, research design and methodology, business economics, professional education, practitioner |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Roles and Professions, Digital Applications, Human Resources, Education |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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