Abstract:

The aim of this study is to analyze the perceptions of vocational high school students about school concept by using metaphors. In this study which is designed as survey model qualitative research design was used to collect data. Data were conducted with 105 vocational education students, chosen voluntarily from 12th grade in their vocational education in Kartepe, Kocaeli. Data were analyzed with qualitative methods. The metaphors which are revealed as a result of content analysis technique gathered and explicated under seven categories. As a consequence of data analysis, we can infer that the school is seen as a disciplined and authoritarian environment by the majority of vocational high school students. The prison metaphor was used frequently by students. A place, providing information and supporting their development metaphor was the second used metaphor. Some of them perceive school as a place for friendship and solidarity. It can be said that the school fulfills its functions according to the functionalists who emphasize the importance of discipline, knowledge and skill through schooling and socialization

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