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The author recently spent time in West Germany examining aspects of German vocational teacher training relevant for teachers in the network of Volkshochschulen (VHS) in that country. The VHS carry out a similar role to Australian TAFE colleges, and provide teacher training opportunities for VHS teachers.

Although there were some similarities in the vocational teacher training topics covered, German teacher training for VHS teachers does not follow our tradition of direction to desired teaching/learning competencies via structured curricula and set practice and reinforcement. Rather, the emphasis is on teacher inner self-awareness through full understanding of the needs of late adolescent and adult students. Some aspects of this approach may have value in any future reassessment of Australian vocational teacher education or staff development. Show less

The paper describes a project, ‘The world of work - education science - industry and commerce’, which began in 1983 in Germany and will extend to the mid 90’s. The research project aims to prepare student teachers for modern life and its environment through a new course of study which includes periods of in-service training in industry. Show less