NCVER Research Messages 2022: Insights into the Future of Vocational Education and Training
The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) has released its Research Messages 2022 report, highlighting key insights from recent research into Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Australia. The report covers a wide range of topics, including employer engagement, digital skills, apprenticeships, and more. Here are some of the key messages from the report.
Employer engagement is critical to the success of VET
The report highlights that employer engagement is essential in shaping and delivering VET programs. Employers can help ensure that VET courses are designed to meet industry needs, resulting in improved employment outcomes for VET graduates. However, effectively engaging employers can be challenging, especially for small businesses and regional areas. The report emphasises the need for VET providers to work closely with employers to understand their needs and design programs that meet them.
Digital skills are increasingly important
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital skills in the workforce, and the report notes that this trend is likely to continue. VET providers must ensure that their courses equip students with the digital skills they need to succeed in the modern workforce. This includes not just technical skills but also skills in areas such as digital communication and collaboration.
Apprenticeships remain a key pathway to employment
Apprenticeships and traineeships remain popular pathways to employment in Australia, particularly in the trades. The report notes that apprenticeships can provide a valuable entry point into the labour market for young people and can lead to higher wages and better job security than non-apprenticeship pathways. However, the report also highlights some of the challenges facing apprenticeships, such as the gender imbalance in some trades and the need to improve completion rates.
Upskilling and reskilling are becoming more important
With the rapid pace of technological change, workers need to be prepared to adapt to new roles and industries throughout their careers. The report notes that VET can play a key role in upskilling and reskilling workers, particularly those already in the workforce. However, the report also highlights the need for more flexible and accessible training options, particularly for workers who may not be able to attend traditional classroom-based courses.
Collaboration between VET providers and the industry is crucial
The report highlights the importance of collaboration between VET providers and the industry in ensuring that VET courses are relevant to the needs of the labour market. This includes not just engagement with employers but also a collaboration with industry bodies and other stakeholders. The report notes that this collaboration can help ensure that VET providers deliver courses that meet industry needs and can lead to better employment outcomes for VET graduates.
The NCVER Research Messages 2022 report provides essential insights into the state of VET in Australia. The report highlights the importance of addressing the challenges facing VET providers and workers and taking advantage of the opportunities presented by technological advancement and changing industry needs. By doing so, VET can continue to play a vital role in preparing workers for the jobs of the future.
To access the full NCVER Research Massages 2022, visit their website.