Down and Stewart: Implementation of training packages Implementation of training packages at RMIT

RMIT University has adopted an approach to Training Packages which equally values the learning journey of its students with the training outcomes. This paper will look at the essential educational design issues including underpinning knowledge, building generic capabilities, graded assessment and using student-centred approaches which are responsive to students needs and aspirations. The professional development needed to support the change in teaching approach will also be discussed. In addition, an overview of the structural and administrative processes changes which have been implemented to ensure a quality approach to Training Packages will be presented. It has been noted in a range of forums that the flexible capacity of Training Package qualifications has liberated the learning design process so that it is more capable of • reflecting the needs of particular student cohorts and markets • customising qualifications to a range of industry and enterprise circumstances • translating the political and industrial contexts of Training Package development to delivery, planning outcomes and documentation of assessments • providing multiple interpretations of course structures within the same qualification • amplifying the underpinning knowledge and generic capabilities • providing multiple reporting formats for a range of pathway outcomes to meet organisational and student requirements, eg the need to be able to provide competency statements for employment purposes and graded assessments for articulation purposes. RMIT’s response to the introduction of Training Packages as the specification of endorsed vocational education and training (VET) outcomes and qualifications has been based on an analysis of: • the form and function of training packages and the changes in practice that are indicated; • the professional needs of RMIT teaching and support staff to implement this change; and • our obligation to our students to provide them with an educationally sound and vocationally relevant learning program Down and Stewart: Implementation of training package