Successful Workplace Learning Program

Margaret Plunkett and Peter Whitley

In his address at the Annual General Meeting of the Gippsland Region of the Australian College of Educators, GippsTAFE Chief Executive Officer Dr Peter Whitley stressed the need for 'Lifelong Learning', and outlined GippsTAFE's successful workplace learning program to provide the skills needed for Australia to meet its future needs.

Australia has only a middle order ranking in International Education Tables, and some socio-economic groups have inadequate literacy and numeracy skills.  In addition, after gaining initial qualifications, highly inadequate numbers take on further studies to upgrade their qualifications.  Since 2006, however, there has been some improvement.

Many students in our surrounding area are unable or reluctant to travel to a central learning place and are resistant to formalised schooling.  "On the job" learning has a workplace context, provides an exciting and stimulating process whereby the learner learns by doing "real" work, and industry can contribute to the learning process by observing students in "action".

Through use of modern technologies such as broadband, wireless technology, illuminate, and video conferencing, workers can interact with TAFE training staff whilst still at their workplace and at home. Such workers are given individual learning plans.  Of course there is a need to attend GippsTAFE for brief intensive sessions. 

Workplace learning brings together theory and practical application, involves workplace managers in the learning process, and enhances employer and TAFE relationships.  Since 2006 the number of students participating in on line courses has increased from 391 to 651 in 2009 - 20% of all students.

Newly-elected President of the Gippsland Region of the Australian College of Educators Dr Margaret Plunkett, congratulated Dr Whitley on GippsTAFE, successful initiatives.

Click here for a copy of Dr Whitley's presentation.