There is growing international and national interest in the concept of social capital, its role, and the ways economic and social policies coalesce to drive economic progress and community well-being. This paper identifies eight areas the VET system can contribute to social capital: building social capital in firms; building networks of businesses, especially the small business sector; developing employability skills; fostering values and norms that underpin social capital; contributing to inclusive and cohesive communities; initiating and contributing to learning community initiatives; using information and communication technology innovatively to build virtual communities; and contributing to society as a good citizen. The report also discusses indicators for measuring social capital, and implications for VET policy and practice.
This discussion paper argues the need for VET to broaden its scope in response to the anticipated changes of the 21st century and to 'coverage' with what we now think of as 'lifelong learning'. The result of such convergence will be a new form of learning, different in character from the prior forms and better able to meet the needs of individuals and society as a whole.
This report draws on international experience and is designed to outline some general features of the current (as distinct from earlier) approaches to lifelong learning and present the work of major international organisations that have been active in this field such as the Council of Europe, UNESCO, the OECD and the European Union. It also suggests the lessons that can be drawn from this international experience.
Examines recent Australian research in the area of flexible delivery of training. Issues uncovered include the need for future research to focus on managing change and to address the learning aspects associated with flexible delivery.