Quality of assessment in vocational education and training: discussion paper

Quality outcomes from vocational education and training (VET) are fundamental to ensuring a skilled workforce and supporting a productive economy. In a competency-based training system, assessment is the gatekeeper for quality. This discussion paper sought stakeholder views on reform options within three broad themes to improve the quality of assessment in VET: (1) foundation reforms to the capabilities of VET professionals; (2) reforms to the assessment of learners and industry engagement; and (3) reforms to the regulatory framework. The discussion paper was released in late January...  [+] Show more

Quality outcomes from vocational education and training (VET) are fundamental to ensuring a skilled workforce and supporting a productive economy. In a competency-based training system, assessment is the gatekeeper for quality. This discussion paper sought stakeholder views on reform options within three broad themes to improve the quality of assessment in VET: (1) foundation reforms to the capabilities of VET professionals; (2) reforms to the assessment of learners and industry engagement; and (3) reforms to the regulatory framework. The discussion paper was released in late January 2016 with a submission close date of 11 March. It received 211 submissions from stakeholders including RTOs, industry bodies, regulators, VET practitioners and experts, state and territory governments and community members. The development of this discussion paper has been informed by deliberations of the Training and Assessment Working Group, established by the Australian Government. Outcomes from consultations, including feedback from this discussion paper, were to form the basis of recommendations from the Training and Assessment Working Group [available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 140.885] to the then Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, Luke Hartsuyker.

Edited excerpts from publication and publisher's website.