Early school leaving in the lower vocational track: triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data

This study assessed the reasons for very early school leaving of boys in the lower secondary vocational track. A unique combination of quantitative and qualitative data from different sources provided background data on these boys from a national cohort study on their elementary and high school periods. In-depth interviews in which the boys reflect on their early school leaving were conducted. Four case studies are presented in which the boys' own reflections are interpreted in light of the cohort data. It was found that several factors contribute simultaneously to early school leaving; however, the emphasis lies with learning problems, lack of motivation, and problems arising from choosing the wrong vocational track. Specific personal problems also negatively affect the school career. While the boys do not feel alienated from school, they do not enjoy studying and would rather start work. This approach of combining data appears to be worth reproducing.