Graduates' perceptions of program processes and outcomes of selected postsecondary technical and vocational education programs in Barbados

The purpose in this descriptive-comparative correlational study was to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of similar programs offered at the two postsecondary technical and vocational institutions in Barbados. This was accomplished by conducting a follow-up study of selected programs.;Respondents were 169 graduates who completed Electronics and Mechanical and Electrical Engineering programs at Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic and Barbados Community College. Data were collected by mail survey, focus group interview and document analysis.;Chi Square analysis revealed that no difference was found between weekly income for completers of the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering programs at both institutions. Conversely, both groups of completers from Barbados Community College had higher wages (;The means for satisfaction with present job were similar across institutions when each program was compared. Completers from both programs at Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic rated their program more useful in preparing them for a job than Barbados Community College completers. Mechanical and Electrical Engineering and Electronics completers are working at all levels related to the positions for which they trained.;Based on Chi Square and mean scores, completers from both programs at Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic were more satisfied with: employability skills experienced; aspects of their program; services offered and overall satisfaction with programs than Barbados Community College completers. Similarly, graduates from both programs at Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic use employability skills developed during the program in their current jobs more than Barbados Community College completers.;Focus group interviews revealed that improvement strategies for both institutions included providing equipped laboratories and adequate library holdings and advances in technology. The major improvement strategy for Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic is marketing the certification received. For Barbados Community College providing a balance between practical and theoretical classes is critical.