Discussion Paper

A Review of Methodologies for measuring the costs and benefits of in-company apprenticeship training

Understanding the costs and benefits of apprenticeship training, as well as its outcomes, is an important factor for enterprises to make decisions relating to the skills development of current and future employees. Existing studies on this topic paint a mixed picture, some reveal net benefits to employers and others net costs. Apart from observed variances in apprenticeship systems and practices across countries, a proper international comparison of cost-benefit analysis is hampered by differences in research methods.
This report reviews research methods and findings of major existing studies with the aim of helping advance discussions on research methods, and suggests areas where knowledge gaps exist.