International J. Soc. Sci. & Education 2012 Vol. 2 Issue 3, ISSN: 2223-4934 E and 2227-393X Print 402 Identification of Training Needs for Vocational Tutors at Allama Iqbal Open University By Misbah Anjum Rajpoot Preston University Islamabad, Pakistan Imtiaz Ali (Corresponding Author) Preston University Islamabad, Pakistan Rashada Jabeen Rajpoot Preston University Islamabad, Pakistan Mujahid Azam Sarhad University of Science & Information Technology Peshawar Abstract This study was undertaken to analyze the identification of training needs for vocational tutors. The main objectives of the study were to identify the training needs of vocational tutors, to evaluate the performance of vocational tutors and to identify /solve problem faced by vocational tutors to suggest suitable solutions of vocational tutors’ problems. Questionnaires were used as the main sources of data gathering tool. Questionnaires were developed for the target population after the review of related literature. The target population consisted of students, tutors and academicians of AIOU. Main findings of the study indicate that majority of the students were in favour of vocational courses being taught by the AIOU through the distance education system. Majority of students were satisfied about admission, time duration, study material, practical skills and tutorial arrangement but did not agree to encouraging remarks as well as return of assignments in due course of time. Conclusions of the study were included that technical courses being offered through distance education system are useful for developing sufficient of vocational skills and full opportunity was provide for learning the theory and practical skills at the technical center. It was recommended that trained tutors may be appointed to turn the system effectively. Keywords: Training Needs, Vocational Tutors, AIOU 1. Introduction Education plays significant role for the socio-economic and political development of an individual and the society. (International Bureau of Education, 1982) Education, or being educated, involves all senses being exposed to a series of stimulate, which will enhance and grow the mental capacity of someone, to achieve a set of, or a specific objective.( Rhodes, 2010) Education is considered as a precondition for economic and total factor productivity growth through its contribution to both adoption and innovation (Benhabib & Spiegel, 1994).