In the view of a continuing education unit in a rural health education center in Australia, competency-based training emphasizes what a person can actually do as a result of training. Professional continuing education courses are being developed using accredited guidelines from the national Vocational Education Training Assessment Board. (SK)

The author states that a central debate in the issue of continuing education for health science professionals is voluntary versus mandatory participation. She questions the assumption that participation in continuing education equals continuing competence and proposes a throrough examination of the rationale, opportunities, and obstacles related…

Reviews data on the rapid growth of the older population in Australia. Describes the aims and content of gerontological education, highlighting the importance of destroying myths. Describes the educational opportunities available for older people, exploring the University of the Third Age model. (DMM)

The results of recent restructuring of Australia's higher education system, particularly through university mergers with other institutions, are examined. Analysis of the La Trobe University-Lincoln Institute of the Health Sciences merger focuses on goals and academic rationale, the first three years, and likely future trends. (Author/MSE)

During 1990 and 1991 an access and support program for Australian Aboriginal adult students was implemented at the Faculty of Health Science campus of the University of Sydney (Australia). The program offered support for those interested in the health sciences and featured preparatory, orientation and supplementary support courses under special…

Discussion of issues in the implementation of a problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum at the University of Queensland (Australia) dental school looks at the role of the faculty member in PBL, good problem design, group learning processes, appropriate assessment approaches and techniques, the role of evaluation in improving instruction, student…

Australia's Aged Care Act of 1997 mandates a number of key reforms aimed at ensuring consistency in the quality of care and well-being for all residents of aged care facilities. The law required residential aged care facilities to provide high-quality care within a framework of continuous improvement which requires aged care workers to perform the…