Trainee Opinions about Non-Formal Education Activities of Local Governments: The Case of ISMEK Language Courses

The aim of this study was to find out opinions and expectations of the trainees regarding the language courses offered in the Art and Vocational Training courses by the Metropolitan Municipality of Istanbul (ISMEK). A qualitative, descriptive, phenomenological design was used in this study. Purposeful sampling method was adopted to form the study group. While conducting purposeful sampling, maximum variation sampling strategy was used to ensure an adequate selection from a wide range of cases. The study group consisted of 25 trainees enrolled in language courses offered by the Fatih sub-office of ISMEK. The data was gathered from volunteer participants through semi-structured interviews. For this purpose, a semi-structured interview form was developed. The data was then analyzed by using the content analysis technique. According to the results of the study, the free language training offered by ISMEK was the most important reason preferred by participants. The quality of the courses and the certificates granted to trainees by ISMEK were also important reasons of preference. Trainees were found to have enrolled in these courses for economic purposes such as gaining advantage in finding a job, self-development, realizing career goals, sustaining their current professions and not having problems abroad. A majority of the participants thought that the ISMEK certificate should have a positive impact on their careers. ISMEK’s offer of socialization opportunities was found to be the most important contribution to the participants’ personal lives.