Varieties of learning: the interface between higher education and vocational education and training

A wide range of issues and challenges facing the Australian higher education sector was raised by the Ministerial discussion paper ‘Higher education at the crossroads’ (indexed at TD/TNC 71.381). This issues paper explores those issues which relate to the interface between the higher education and vocational education and training (VET) sectors. It looks at some of the barriers to further partnerships such as the differences in the learning and assessment processes between the sectors and the lack of information for students about the available options. It begins by describing the two...  [+] Show more

A wide range of issues and challenges facing the Australian higher education sector was raised by the Ministerial discussion paper ‘Higher education at the crossroads’ (indexed at TD/TNC 71.381). This issues paper explores those issues which relate to the interface between the higher education and vocational education and training (VET) sectors. It looks at some of the barriers to further partnerships such as the differences in the learning and assessment processes between the sectors and the lack of information for students about the available options. It begins by describing the two sectors, the factors shaping the relationship and the nature of the interface. It then goes on to consider the following key issues: credit transfer; articulation/joint courses; dual sector universities; multi-sector campuses; infrastructure sharing in regional areas; research collaboration; qualifications issues; and the impact of future demand on both sectors. The paper concludes with some alternatives for ways forward to strengthen inter-sectoral links.