Changing the design of TAFE for a new normal: how digital is transforming the training experience, campus design and TAFE operating models

Vector Consulting was commissioned by Cisco and Optus to understand how digital is changing TAFE operating models, training experiences and campus design. The study involved desktop research, targeted interviews, an international higher education roundtable and a comprehensive online survey that captured responses from the sector. The report suggests that [Coronavirus Disease 2019] COVID-19 has amplified some major shifts impacting on TAFEs: the rise of blue tech skills and forecast industry shortages; higher value being placed on digital skills for all roles; changing training consumption models for both industry and learners; more 'digitally demanding' students; efficiency agenda of state governments; and the digitisation of every TAFE function. The research found that more than four out of five TAFE executives believe COVID-19 has created permanent change in the way TAFE campuses are designed and operate. This is higher than the equivalent figure for universities. These major shifts are creating the impetus for transformation of TAFE operating models, training experiences and campus design across five areas: (1) creating institute resilience and adaptability; (2) prioritising safety and security as part of the campus experience; (3) re-designing campuses so they are engaging but efficient to operate; (4) building learning models that are immersive and scalable; and (5) using innovative models to ensure TAFE boundaries are even more porous to industry.

The capacity of TAFEs to adjust to these future changes and sustain innovation and future competitiveness is increasingly dependent on having a clear strategy for operationalising digital innovation. This report puts forward a range of steps that TAFEs will therefore need to take to succeed in the 'new normal': (1) make digital an executive-level priority; (2) get the underlying platform in place: robust, scalable and secure; (3) focus on applications that make TAFE attractive to all students; (4) embrace partnerships with industry; and (5) think strategically about how to fund digital initiatives in a financially constrained environment.

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