Skills for life: lifelong learning systems in Australia

This paper focuses on a discussion of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and the National Training Framework (NTF) as primary vehicles for facilitating lifelong learning in Australia. In particular, the main features of these frameworks are described: innovations aimed at providing effective cross-sectoral learning pathways; criticisms surrounding the implementation of the competency based approach; and tensions resulting from the different financing arrangements between the educational sectors. Challenges still face the training system in Australia. The implementation of the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) and the continuing evolution of training packages address quality issues. The development of cross-sectoral qualification linkages between the vocational education and training (VET) and higher education sectors us seen as an important factor in lifelong learning in the Australian context. The paper explores the concept of educational partnerships, with learning communities involving a variety of government, private and community organisations providing an integrated approach to learning at a community level. Finally, the paper suggests that financing arrangements for education and training in Australia, with each education sector having different arrangements, will need to be addressed if the sectors are to be brought closer together and the boundaries between them broken down to facilitate seamless learning pathways for students of all ages.

The collected proceedings of the seminar are indexed at TD/TNC 74.24; individual papers are indexed from TD/TNC 74.25 to TD/TNC 74.39.

There are four papers from the seminar not included in the collected proceedings which are indexed from TD/TNC 74.40 to TD/TNC 74.43.

This paper focuses on a discussion of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and the National Training Framework (NTF) as primary vehicles for facilitating lifelong learning in Australia. In particular, the main features of these frameworks are described: innovations aimed at providing effective cross-sectoral learning pathways; criticisms surrounding the implementation of the competency based approach; and tensions resulting from the different financing arrangements between the educational sectors. Challenges still face the training system in Australia. The implementation of the ...  [+] Show more