Work-based learning: a learning strategy in support of the Australian Qualifications Framework

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which work-based learning could potentially improve education and training pathways in Australia. Design/methodology/approach - The paper reviews education and training provision in Australia through a contextualisation of the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) with work-based learning pedagogy to determine the extent to which it might contribute to improved outcomes for learners. Findings - People seeking to advance their career aspirations can consider the application of work-based learning to support lifelong learning pathways through the AQF. Research limitations/implications - There is a need for further longitudinal studies on the outcomes of work-based learning for organisations, individual learners and education and training institutions. Practical implications - The application of effective WBL approaches has the potential to create a much larger flow of learners from experiential and vocational backgrounds into undergraduate programmes and onto higher education programmes using a consistent and effective pedagogy. Social implications - By actively considering the opportunities for learning at work and through work learners, educators and business managers may recognise that there would be more demand for work-based learning. Originality/value - This paper represents an initial action research study which examines the role WBL can provide for life-long learning.

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