School-work alternating in Italy: a critical study

This paper analyzes and critically assesses the school-work alternating model as practiced in the high school system of the Autonomous Province of Trento (Italy). Throughout the assessment, the main weaknesses highlighted by graduates were the limited guidance they received from their teachers and the ineffectiveness of the work placement schemes put in place by the schools The paper therefore raises fundamental questions about this educational model and suggests that improvements should include greater involvement of the students in selecting and shaping their internships and greater assistance to help students choose career paths or further academic directions.