Poll: Nearly half of those at work want to go back to school
One in five consider career change
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Nearly half of Finns with jobs say that they to take supplementary vocational training in the coming years.
According to a poll commissioned by Helsingin Sanomat and conducted by Suomen Gallup, just over half, 51%,say that they would need more professional education, and 43% said that they are seriously considering extra training. One in five of those wanting to go back to school are considering a complete change of profession.
However, by far the most common reasons given by adults planning to indulge in supplementary education were self-development, and improving skills in the present profession. Just under one third said that their own employers wanted them to upgrade their skills. An equal number were hoping for better job opportunities.
The results of the survey suggest that the desire for further training is most common among those who already have a solid professional education - those in leading positions, and white-collar professionals. Women and the middle-aged were also more likely than others to upgrade their skills.
Women were more motivated by goals such as self-development, career advancement, and possibilities to change employers, or even professions. Men, on the other hand, focused on external pressures, such as an employer’s wishes.
Those who were not interested in more training typically cited a lack of time and interest. Financial concerns were cited by 13% of respondents.
More than half of those seriously considering supplementary education want to take a separate course or training programme.
About one third want to study a language, or computer skills, while 29% want a completely new degree.
University was the most popular institution - especially women. It was the preference of 29% of respondents.
One in five wanted to study in a polytech.
Employers took a fairly positive view of employees going back to school.
Nearly half said that their employers agreed to flexible working hours to help them attend classes, and 40% said that their employers offered financial support for the education.
The poll involved telephone interviews with 1,060 working Finns, conducted between June 13th and July 1st this year.
Helsingin Sanomat
Poll: Nearly half of those at work want to go back to school