Vocational training is becoming one of the most important educational levels in the Spanish educational system, as it grants a professional status to those who undertake this kind of training. VET in Spain is structured in two levels (intermediate and higher), whose main objective is to teach students professions and skills, so that they can actively participate in the world of work. A prerequisite for entering higher levels is having completed intermediate training.

Research shows that the improvement of students´ study strategies and motivation (i.e. approaches to learning) may have a positive impact on learning outcomes (Maquilón Hernández Pina, 2011), which is why it is crucial to focus on improving the quality of learning of vocational training students. This may be achieved if academic and professional competences relevant for entering the labour market are acquired. At present, the purpose of vocational training is to prepare students for the world of work, and to enable adaptation to any changes or contextual demands. It is, therefore, timely to carry out research on the preferred way of learning of vocational students, and on how various factors such as sex, level and age influence students´ choices. 

The main objectives of this study were a) to assess reliability levels of the instruments used (Spanish verson of LPQ and R-SPQ-2F); b) to identify approaches to learning of the sample according to vocational training level; c) to explore the relationship between approaches to learning and variables such as sex and training level; d) and to assess the correlation (congruence) between instrument subscales (motive and strategy).

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