Generic skills are gaining importance internationally and in Australia. This 'At a glance' explains why there is such an interest in generic skills, and describes how they have been defined and addressed in educational programs in Australia. It also compares the different definitions and interpretations of generic skills in various overseas countries. A complementary publication 'Fostering generic skills in VET programs and workplaces: At a glance' is also available.
Generic skills are gaining importance internationally and in Australia. This 'At a glance' explains how generic skills can be fostered in vocational education and training (VET) programs and workplaces. It also focuses on research into describing, teaching, learning, assessing, recognising, and certifying these important skills, and includes the views of a variety of groups. A complementary publication 'Defining generic skills: At a glance' is also available.
Recent research into workplace learning in Australia is reviewed and important findings are synthesised in this publication. It finds that six elements are required to be in place for effective workplace learning and proposes that the 'ideal' workplace learning situation fosters innovation, and involves a systematic approach. Additionally, the 'At a glance' emphasises that the networks and partnerships of the workplace learning system - the workplace, individual, external training provider and a variety of community and government organisations - are crucially important.