Work-based learning: A learning strategy in support of the Australian Qualifications Framework

• Main Authors: Shayne D. Baker, Neil Peach, Malcolm Cathcart
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Emerald Publishing 2017-09-01
• Series: Journal of Work-Applied Management
• Subjects: Pathways; Lifelong learning; Work-based learning; Australian Qualification Framework; Institutional learning; Work applied learning
• Online Access: https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/pdfplus/10.1108/JWAM-04-2017-0008
• ISSN: 2205-2062; 2205-149X

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which work-based learning could potentially improve education and training pathways in Australia. Design/methodology/approach - The paper reviews education and training provision in Australia through a contextualisation of the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) with work-based learning pedagogy to determine the extent to which it might contribute to improved outcomes for learners. Findings - People seeking to advance their career aspirations can consider the application of work-based learning to support lifelong learning pathways through the AQF. Research limitations/implications - There is a need for further longitudinal studies on the outcomes of work-based learning for organisations, individual learners and education and training institutions. Practical implications - The application of effective WBL approaches has the potential to create a much larger flow of learners from experiential and vocational backgrounds into undergraduate programmes and onto higher education programmes using a consistent and effective pedagogy. Social implications - By actively considering the opportunities for learning at work and through work learners, educators and business managers may recognise that there would be more demand for work-based learning. Originality/value - This paper represents an initial action research study which examines the role WBL can provide for life-long learning.