Discussion about Australia's ageing population has focused on the importance of increasing labour force participation rates of older people. This paper examines the influence of education and training on the participation of older people in the labour market, and the pay-off of undertaking education and training as an older-person compared to earlier in life. On the whole, the results indicate the more qualifications the better, and education, lifelong learning and training are beneficial to maintaining and increasing employment rates. Qualifications acquired later in life have as good, and in some cases, better, pay-off to employment-to-population rates for older age groups, suggesting education is an effective strategy for older people seeking employment. The authors also suggest that increasing education levels will partially offset the impact of ageing on labour force participation.
This report investigates students' learning experience at a TAFE institute and determines the factors that influence students to continue or discontinue their studies. Students who reported satisfaction with their learning experience highlighted relationships with teaching staff and respect for their expertise and organisation as significant factors in their experience. While students who were dissatisfied with their experience were in the minority, they were considerably more likely to leave their course before completion. Indicators of unsatisfactory experiences included poor relationships with instructors, a sense of 'struggling' with course content and difficulties accessing administrative or support services. The study recommends ongoing diagnostic assessment within courses, and closer screening of students at enrolment to determine their learning needs and strategies to meet these needs.
Some students, who complete a preparatory or pre-vocational course in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, re-enrol in the same 'enabling' course or at the same level of qualification in following years. Findings of this report indicate that re-enrolling in enabling courses offers positive outcomes. Students who re-enrol in enabling courses are either undertaking more advanced courses within the same level of qualification, studying to retain or improve their skills, or to gain further skills and experience to progress within the VET system or into the workforce.
The adult and community (ACE) sector and technical and further education (TAFE) institutes provide programs for young people which re-connect them to education. This report suggests these programs and settings are considered effective pathways for some young people who have left school early. The researchers found students are attracted to the programs by key features, including the quality of relationships between students and staff, flexible mode of delivery, choice of study areas, and opportunities for personal autonomy.