10.1515/vtrr-2017-0002 Vocational Training: Research and Realities, Vol 28, No. 1, 2017 3 DOI 10.2478/vtrr-2018-0002 EXPLORING EFFECTIVE TEACHING METHODS IN THE VOCATIONAL EDUCATION OF CYPRUS ANASTASIOU Michael, KYRIAKOU Marinos CityUnity College / Cardiff Metropolitan University, Larnaca-Aradippou, Cyprus Hospitality and Culinary Arts Vocational School, Larnaca, Cyprus Abstract The study aim was to determine which teaching methods are most effective for developing the students’ appropriate professional competencies in the culinary arts programs of Cyprus’ Senior Secondary Vocational Education (SSVE). A qualitative case study research design was considered appropriate and a criterion sampling strategy was used to select 52 participants. Findings showed that chef instructors prefer to use a combination of teaching methods by considering class dynamics and students’ personal learning style. Students learn primarily by doing and repetition and a two-day sequel laboratory could become an effective in-class activity. The positive impact of modern audio-visual means was identified as a factor, stimulating students’ learning appetite. Thus, a competitive learning environment is needed to boost class performance. However, the written examination assessment calls for change due to basic student issues and new approaches, means, and techniques that should be used for the final assessment of the SSVE students. Keywords: Teaching Effectiveness; Teaching Methods; Vocational Training; Learning. Background The necessity to infuse the local workforce with modern vocational qualifications and skills was highly supported by the European Union (EU; Specht, Ahnfeld, and Reichert 2008). The Department for Education (DfE, 2011) emphasized the importance and the contribution of vocational education to local economies. However, the Senior Secondary Vocational Education (SSVE) in Cyprus was always a controversial issue for discussion. Although, there was a lack of Brought to you by | Vytautas Magnus University Authenticated Download Date | 4/27/18 8:49 AM