The OECD countries have widely differing traditions regarding basic vocational training. This publication, prepared as part of the VOTEC project on "The Changing Role of Vocational and Technical Education and Training", is designed to help towards a better understanding of the internal logic and workings of these different systems.Education and training systems propose differentiated and interconnected pathways, each of which can be broken down into a series of programmes. But what are the factors that explain participation of young people in VOTEC and the way it has developed over time? A number of answers have been formulated and are examined here in the light of ten national reports.The wealth of information contained in the reports is brought together for the first time in this publication, which explains basic concepts and assesses what can be learnt from national experience. This both conceptual and pragmatic approach should help national decision-makers abandon ready-made ideological responses in favour of innovatory solutions based on experience and adapted to the traditions of their countries.