Inadequate conceptions of the self underlie vocational education and training policy and instruction. The concept of a socially extended self, a social being who is complex and multifaceted, is incompatible with competency-based approaches to vocational education being used in Australia. (SK)

In Australia, apprentices and trainees can choose training providers using public funds to finance training. User choice raises policy issues in several areas: access in remote locations, impact on equity groups, competitiveness of training markets, and tensions among stakeholders (government, employers, providers, apprentices). (SK)

Qualitative and quantitative data suggest that over the 10 years of Australia's National Training Reform Agenda initiatives, women in female-dominated occupations in nonprofessional, nonmanagerial jobs have fared less well than other workers. The goal of training for transferable skills has not been achieved for these women. (SK)

Older workers' perspectives are examined in a national survey of the finance sector and case studies of aged care and construction workers. The majority of older workers intend to work beyond retirement age, to achieve a better lifestyle. With training, older workers could mentor younger workers. This support document includes a national survey of…

A study explored behavioral factors to explain why non-completions were higher among trainees than apprentices. A survey of 797 apprentices and trainees who did not complete training and 462 of their employers was followed by focus groups with new apprentices, employers, and training providers. Findings indicated most new apprentices commenced…

The author discusses various elements of the PEP (Participation and Equity Program). These include participation and retention, equity and equality, equality and excellence, ripple effects, economic and educational justifications, and symbolic effects of the program. (CT)

Analysis of data from electrical and associated occupations in the Australian state of Victoria shows the following: (1) a decline in numbers of apprentices; (2) numbers of women and other disadvantaged groups not increasing in apprenticeships; and (3) skill shortages on the supply side that will be exacerbated at both ends of the age spectrum if…

Reviews the history of adult education in Australia's Northern Territory, 1974-1989, and compares it to the current state. Finds that adult education resources were greater 15 years ago. Current training funding and delivery lacks context, community control, and local, especially indigenous, input. (Contains 69 references.) (SK)

Describes the Hunter Caravan Project of Australia, which was designed to improve direct services for children and address the needs of parents and families living in caravan parks. (RJC)

Three Australian studies identified attributes of workplaces as learning environments: authentic activities, experts, other workers, and task engagement. Limitations of workplace learning included inappropriate knowledge, lack of access to activities, expert reluctance, absence of expertise, opaque knowledge, and problems with instructional media.…

A manufacturing organization that trained workers on the job using active learning techniques demonstrated to the organization the benefits of training. As a result, a cultural change has taken place and workers believe they have been empowered. (JOW)

Learning for work is the focus of public policy in Australia, New Zealand, and Britain. However, meaningful public debate about the presumed benefits of training and lifelong learning has been stifled by rhetoric about competitiveness and economic survival. (SK)

Discusses one of the difficulties facing journalism educators: how to properly prepare students for the wide range of jobs available to them. Argues it is preferable to teach students the core principles underlying journalism as a discipline and the core skills and methods of journalistic practice. Notes a widespread misunderstanding about the…

Interviews in 17 Australian vocational education and training enterprises found they engaged in 3 models of research intended to shape organizational development: informal, network based; instrumental strategic planning; and internally motivated capacity building. The capacity building model appeared to have the most utility in transforming…

The extent of employer-supported education and training in Australia was examined by analyzing data from the Training Expenditure Surveys (TES), which gathered information from firms, and the Surveys of Education and Training Experience (SETE), which gathered information from workers. The TES showed an approximately 10% decline in the hours of…