Moving beyond training packages: first steps

Training packages are central to the practice of vocational education and training (VET) in Australia. In the context of debate about the future of VET, questions must be asked about the role of training packages in any transformation. In this paper two basic questions are raised and directions for inquiry advanced. The first is about the processes and structures through which industry bodies and governments control training package design and use. If training packages are to evolve or be superseded, principles will need to be formulated concerning the roles and influence of government and industry. The paper argues for a set of principles that can guide shifts in the context around training packages as the latter change. The second question is about curricular form in future VET. Training packages are currently based on a competency-based training (CBT) model. The paper weighs up the case for CBT's influence in future VET and reviews alternative models and principles that might inform any shift away from a competency-based foundation. The principles and models considered in the paper are proposed to inform debate about changes to VET that are inevitable.

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