Latest research
Our latest suite of research on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) clarifies the definition of STEM competency, and explores ways to measure how vocational education and training (VET) is contributing to the development of STEM-related skills.
What is STEM? The need for unpacking its definitions and applications
The term STEM is used to simplistically bundle up all education and occupations in the scientific and technical domains. While this is convenient it can hide important distinctions about sub-disciplines, pedagogy, skills types and level of qualification. Our new publication What is STEM? The need for unpacking its definitions and applications suggests unpacking and identifying the major components of STEM to improve understanding and application.
Measuring STEM in VET
Measuring STEM in vocational education and training explores how STEM can be measured to gain a better indication of the VET sector’s place in delivering the STEM skills required in the twenty-first-century.
Using existing NCVER data, the number of enrolments in VET programs by field of education, intended occupation and relevant industry can be counted. These approaches are useful to compare with other education sectors, analyse employment and labour force data and assess industry skills needs, however they only cover STEM in a basic way. Better measurement is required to help identify supply and demand for education and training, assess outcomes and efficiency, direct funding and resources, and properly inform students’ choices.
Upcoming Webinar
How can private RTOs support young learners who have left school early?
Date: Thursday 27 October
Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm ACDT
Who should attend: Registered training organisations or those with an interest in young disadvantaged learners.
Join us to hear about the role of private RTOs in delivering training to young people who have left school early including:
- barriers to participation
- teaching practices
- types of initiatives needed to support learners
- capability of private RTOs in providing support.
This webinar has been rescheduled from September. Those who have previously registered for this free webinar will need to re-register using the link below.