Influence of stress on students at a technical vocational education and training college

EFEC1-3/2019

Research has revealed that learners in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges face substantial stress which can impact on their physical well-being, mental health, and academic performance. This paper reports on a study using the Lazarus theory of stress to examine patterns, and contextual factors affecting the stress experiences and coping mechanisms of a student group at one TVET college in South Africa. The findings from an analysis of the data, obtained from student interviews and journals, revealed key factors contributing to student stress. These include financial constraints, social challenges, daily hardships, and demanding academic workloads. The study demonstrated the pervasive nature of stress in technical and vocational education environments and highlights the necessity for targeted support strategies to address the negative impacts of stress. Based on the findings, a number of recommendations could be made on strategies for reducing the impact of stress so as to improve the coping mechanisms and well-being of students and enhance their academic success. These actionable insights are provided for executive management, policy-makers and educators at TVET institutions to contribute to the building of robust support frameworks, which will ultimately create an educational environment that is more supportive and that leads to enhanced student well-being and success.