The purpose of this study is to evaluate, from a national perspective, the impact and outcomes of market reform in vocational education and training (VET), particulary the introduction of competitive tendering and 'user choice'. It does so by examining the structure, composition and dynamics of contestable or 'quasi-markets' for VET, assessing the impact and effects of market reform on providers and clients, and evaluating the outcomes, both intended and unintended, of market reform in VET.
The book builds on CEET's review of the economics of vocational education and training for the Australian National Training Authority in 1994. Seven chapters discuss: the overall purpose of the review; changing employment patterns; demand for VET; supply of VET; special supply issues; finance and market issues; and finally, future research, access and equity, and research impact.
How do we balance the differing demands on vocational education and training to improve the national economy at the same time as assisting individuals in their need for workskills? These collected papers are from the 1997 conference 'Different drums, one beat?', which discussed the economic and social goals in Australian education and training. Twenty-six researchers, sociologists and VET economists explore alternative directions for the VET sector. The conference and the publication were jointly produced by the Centre for the Economics of Education and Training and NCVER.