This article examines contemporary research and views related to a currently observed rise in ext... more This article examines contemporary research and views related to a currently observed rise in extremist views and social actions. The analysis delves into the multifaceted nature of right-wing and left-wing extremism, exploring their ideological foundations, psychological and social influences, and the diverse forms of activism and violence associated with each. The commentary highlights the ideological fluidity and adaptability within extremist movements, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research and early intervention programs to mitigate radicalization. Additionally, the research underscores the critical role of public perception and media representation in shaping narratives around extremism, advocating for responsible media reporting and the development of counter-narratives. Legal and political frameworks are examined, with recommendations for reforms to better address the specific challenges posed by different forms of extremism. The analysis also identifies the intersection of extremism with broader social issues, such as racism, sexism, and economic inequality, and calls for comprehensive policies that promote social cohesion and inclusivity. By integrating these insights into prevention, education, and legal strategies, the article aims to contribute to the discussions related to a more stable and inclusive society that can effectively counter the evolving threat of extremism.
Crane operators control mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move and place objects at locations ... more Crane operators control mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move and place objects at locations such as building and construction sites, wharves and shipyards. This activity occurs all over the world and is a high risk task with many noted examples of serious incidents and accidents. There are identifiable key causes that have been noted through analysis of the well documented cases and many of these causes are preventable through effective training programs. Internationally, there are not currently consistent approaches to crane operator training program content or duration. Leading causes of crane accidents are firstly discussed and identified as areas for inclusion in training programs. A number of current training approaches from a range of countries are then considered and these are used to outline the basis of a generic competency standard for crane operation, as it was found that there are not common standards in place. The proposed competency standard can be adapted by training regulators, training providers, government agencies, industry bodies and enterprises as a benchmark for the development of effective training programs.
This article explores approaches to assessment of competence against nationally recognized units ... more This article explores approaches to assessment of competence against nationally recognized units of competency and considers these approaches with regard to the intent of the underpinning units of competency and the notion of compliance with the Standards for Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) 2015, in particular Clause 1.8. Specifically, the review investigates whether components of units of competency, such as performance criteria and performance evidence should be used as observation criteria for performance assessment tasks used to determine competence. The article concludes that the intent of a unit of competency is embodied in its components, and that units of competency outline competency standards. Given that units of competency provide a benchmark for assessment, they should be used as such. The benchmark can then be used for consistent approach to assessment and any assessment tool review or validation activities and can thus potentially limit the amount of non-compliances experienced in the vocational education and training sector. In order to do so, assessment tools should, for practical observation tasks include observation criteria that duplicate the performance criteria and performance evidence of a unit of competency together with robust task definitions. Using common benchmarks increases the likelihood that another Assessor would make the same judgement, based upon the same evidence.
This paper considers and describes the cool burning techniques long utilized by Australian Indige... more This paper considers and describes the cool burning techniques long utilized by Australian Indigenous people as a contributor to bushfire mitigation. Indigenous fire management involves lighting the "cool" fires in selected areas between March and July, in Australia, during the early dry season. The fires burn gradually, reducing fuel loads and creating fire breaks and not all of the area is burnt. Late in the dry season, when the weather is very hot, the method removes fuel for larger fires while maintaining and protecting habitat for mammals, reptiles, insects and birds. The management of Indigenous cultural fire offers an Indigenous viewpoint for wider control of fire and cultural fire management is an opportunity for collaborations to encourage Aboriginal empowerment with public and private sector organisations. Effective cool burning in contemporary prescribed burning activities can be achieved through implementation of good training, strong partnerships, carefully considered on ground practices and appropriate and effective techniques.
Social science, humanities and sustainability research, Nov 18, 2020
This article considers injuries related to crushing and methods of prevention and minimisation of... more This article considers injuries related to crushing and methods of prevention and minimisation of such injuries, particularly from the perspective of plant operations, where a crush injury occurs when the body or a body part is trapped, pinched or jammed under or between objects (Victoria State Government., 2020). A safe system of work, underpinned by worker awareness, should be implemented and maintained in all load shifting operations in order to minimise or prevent crush injury risks. Employers and workers should participate in inductions, safety meetings and consultation activities to ensure that they are aware of best practices to control crush hazards.
This paper utilises a qualitative literature review to highlight the shift to learner-centred met... more This paper utilises a qualitative literature review to highlight the shift to learner-centred methodologies in vocational education and training and profile the applications of trauma informed approaches to address learner needs and increase learner inclusion and chances of success. The discussion begins by identifying the need for trauma informed approaches in delivery related to technical and further education and workplace settings. The characteristics of trauma informed training environments are then considered such that the professional development needs of trainers can be established. The paper presents a model competency statement that can be used to develop training programs for trainers working in vocational education and training. The model competency statement, entitled "Utilise trauma informed training practices", can be used as a basis for development of accredited programs, nationally recognised units of competence, professional development programs or any other program related to implementation of trauma informed approaches in an adult training setting.
This discussion paper firstly identifies high risk work occupations and industries utilising Safe... more This discussion paper firstly identifies high risk work occupations and industries utilising Safe Work Australia data and then profiles those engaged in these occupations. The profiles lead to an understanding of the educational background of those workers most at risk and allows identification of training gaps. A range of promotion and incentive mechanisms are presented that encourage skilling and upskilling in areas focusing on the knowledge and skills that may contribute to mitigating the risks associated with the identified mechanisms of injury fatality. A range of stakeholders, including employers, training providers, industry skills councils and Government, are considered in terms of the contribution they can make in actively working toward reducing the occurrence of injury and fatality in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing and Transport, Postal and Warehousing industries as experienced by Machinery Operators and Drivers and Labourers.
This exploratory paper considers the practical and theoretical implications of a graded system of... more This exploratory paper considers the practical and theoretical implications of a graded system of assessment in competency-based training within the Australian Vocational Education and Training System. The characteristics of competency-based training are considered and the possible relationships to graded approaches are discussed. The discussion reflects on prominent research in the competency-based assessment domain, including Peddie (1993), Williams and Bateman (2003) and Newton (2018b) to consider the limitations and applications of various models.
This paper, primarily based on a literature review, considers the utilization of adult learning p... more This paper, primarily based on a literature review, considers the utilization of adult learning principles in training learners to operate high risk equipment. Vocational Education and Training sectors throughout the world are traditionally responsible for training delivery in these areas where generally andragogical principles as defined by Knowles (1970), are applied with, in some cases, application of a heutagogical approach, as outlined by Hase and Kenyon (2000). Aside from considering these approaches, a new approach is proposed, referred to as authology, with a basis of including notions of responsibility and duty of care in adult learning. There are numerous training programs in vocational education and training, such as those related to high risk equipment and plant operation, for which development of learner responsibility is a critical component in the training given the potential to cause harm, injury or fatality.
Cyber-attacks are a growing and persistent threat to water infrastructure, including drinking wat... more Cyber-attacks are a growing and persistent threat to water infrastructure, including drinking water and wastewater systems. Water infrastructure uses a number of technical control systems to manage and track infrastructure properties, including hardware and software, such as monitoring and data acquisition systems, process control systems, and other devices, such as programmable logic controllers, that control data gathering equipment and information technology. As these systems become more connected to corporate systems and the internet, security approaches are needed equally across both the control system and the corporate network infrastructure, as there are many potential entry points for cyber attackers to exploit to these systems. These cyber-attacks occur on water infrastructure worldwide and water providers, in order to reduce the risks, need to identify control system asset security vulnerabilities and design, build and maintain a security architecture proportionate to the risk. Human resources are fundamental to these cybersecurity systems and the required emerging job roles require industry specific definition. This paper provides definition on the roles and responsibilities for control system security governance, particularly from the perspective of skills and knowledge and training requirements with a view to addressing leading industry security standards for control systems and practices.
Since 1996, the CCS approach has been used in Canada (Weyburn-Midale), and since 2000, Norway (Sl... more Since 1996, the CCS approach has been used in Canada (Weyburn-Midale), and since 2000, Norway (Sleipner). Boundary Dam (Canada, 2014) and Petra Nova (USA, 2017) are two coal sector projects which have also begun operations with CCS. Coal21 [4] recognizes that there are opportunities to commercially apply CCS technology, such as the Gorgon Project in Western Australia, which will be the world's largest of its kind. In the Callide Oxyfuel project capturing CO 2 at an operating power station in Queensland, and the CO 2 CRC that injects CO 2 into a depleted gas field in the Otway Ranges of Victoria, the technology has also been successfully demonstrated. The Global CCS Institute reports 18 commercialscale CCS facilities globally in service (Norway, Canada, USA, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, China), with a further 5 being planned. A further 20 are at various stages of worldwide development [5]. Carbon capture and storage is being investigated internationally since
International journal for innovation education and research, May 1, 2020
This discussion paper considers the benefits of promotion of qualification pathways related to in... more This discussion paper considers the benefits of promotion of qualification pathways related to individual career pathways for new entrants and current workers in the Australian construction industry. Benefits are considered from an individual, organisational and social view accounting for licencing and health and safety obligations in the industry. The paper condones the promotion of training pathway programs, particularly those that increase in level and stimulate upskilling. Increases in uptake of pathways programs linked to career objectives can have a positive impact on recognised skill shortage occupations and enhance skills in younger workers in an industry subject to an aging workforce. Registered Training Organisations and government agencies are encouraged to develop innovative ways to increase the uptake of pathways and to ensure retention through the range of qualifications completed.
There is currently, and historically, a high rate of workplace incidents and fatalities in the Au... more There is currently, and historically, a high rate of workplace incidents and fatalities in the Australian Agricultural sector. This paper considers the use of coaching as a mechanism for provision of best practice safety training and development of a safety culture in Agricultural work places, particularly based on the current industry profiles and preferred methods of workplace learning. Current studies, including Safe Work Australia and AgHealth Australia data, and literature, such as Krauesslar and Passmore (2015) and Somes (2018), are reviewed to explain how coaching can enable workers to feel motivated and involved in workplace safety, and in effect, reducing the incidence of workplace injuries and fatalities. As such, the paper considers 'what is the most successful training method to develop a stronger health and safety culture in the Agricultural Sector?' The discussion finds that the most commonly and most effective learning approaches utilized in agricultural settings are based on 'farmers learning from farmers'. This is effectively a coaching approach, and in turn, workplace coaching should be considered as a generic foundation skill taught to all workers in Agriculture to encourage effective consultation practices and communication between workers. The development of coaching skills can occur through their inclusion in formal training programs, such Certificate III or IV level programs in Vocational Education and Training and through short specific targeted programs.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) plays a significant role in the development of work ready... more Vocational Education and Training (VET) plays a significant role in the development of work ready individuals and a significant component of a work readiness is the ability to undertake work in a safe manner. This discussion paper aims to outline the various roles played by stakeholders in the VET sector in shaping the development of "safe workers" and increasing the effectiveness of training provided by the VET sector, particularly related to licenced outcome training. The discussion investigates methods to manage and integrate stakeholder expectations and requirements across the various contributors to the training and assessment processes. Current practices are noted and considered with an identification of potential gaps, particularly in stakeholder communication and knowledge, including the dissemination of relevant information. Issues related to the complexity created where the training and assessment practices are regulated by multiple regulators are highlighted as a primary focus of the study. The paper concludes by proposing establishment of an independent group of technical experts across the range of applicable regulations requirements to provide authoritative support to the VET sector.
International Journal of Learning and Development, Jun 25, 2020
A number of activities in workplaces, such as such as those including cutting, grinding, sanding,... more A number of activities in workplaces, such as such as those including cutting, grinding, sanding, drilling, loading or demolishing products that contain silica, can produce respirable particles of crystalline silica dust that are small enough to inhale. Inhalation of crystalline silica can cause silicosis which is incurable. Work practices are critical to prevent the condition from occurring and safe work practices are as relevant to workplaces as they are to training environments. This study considers methods of risk control and training practices such that silicosis is prevented. Training requirements are profiled in a vocational education and training setting and must include: crystalline silica hazards and health risks, including silicosis; effective use controls; use and maintenance of personal protective equipment, including Respiratory Protective Equipment; safe waste disposal; and, practices for personal decontamination. The training environment must be designed in a manner to allow for engineering controls, such as on-tool water suppression or on-tool dust extraction, to be utilised.
International Journal of Vocational Education and Training Research, 2020
This paper aims to examine qualification rationalization processes in Vocational Education and Tr... more This paper aims to examine qualification rationalization processes in Vocational Education and Training internationally to establish lessons learned such that they can be applied to the Australian system. Current interest in rationalization in Australia is being driven by research undertaken by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment, and promoted by the Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison.. They suggest that the current system is difficult to understand and use, and outline that the system would benefit from a reduction in the number of qualifications currently on offer. Zero or minimal uptake is the most commonly documented approach to qualification rationalization internationally and is most effective when paired with a process of stakeholder consultation and engagement. Effective consultation should be inclusive of training providers, enterprises, social partners, employment services, public authorities and research organisations to ensure qualifications on offer meet industry and social needs. Care should be taken to ensure rationalization does not deplete flexibility in the system that has intentionally been embedded to allow qualifications to match workplace requirements. The benefits in ensuring units of competency and qualifications are promptly updated and adapted to emerging needs rather than rationalized are noted. The 'updating' approach could be paired with an education program for users of the system and a program of stakeholder marketing to ensure that the system is fully understood by all those who use it.
International Journal of Vocational Education and Training Research, 2020
Effective health and safety training can contribute to a reduction of workplace accidents and ass... more Effective health and safety training can contribute to a reduction of workplace accidents and assist employers to meet their health and safety legal obligations as prescribed by health and safety legislation. This paper considers the competency requirements for trainers of health and safety within the Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) context from a standards perspective. Currently, there are not specific specified requirements for these trainers, but rather generic requirements that apply to all trainers in the VET sector. An interpretive qualitative method utilizing observations based on a review of a range of sources, including published research, standards documents, general internet sources and industry publications is applied such that the health and safety training practices and environments in the VET sector are explored and described. Health and safety training, in order to be effective, warrants careful attention to the training environment, the training practices implemented and the skills and knowledge of the trainer. The role of standards for health and safety training, with ANSI/ASSE Z490.1-2016 and CAN/CSA Z1001-18b provided as examples, is considered and a these standards provide a basis for a proposed standardization for health and safety training practitioners in the Australian VET system. The findings offer inclusion of a specific training and assessment unit of competency in the TAE Training and Education Training Package to address the specific requirements for safety trainers, which then be used as a benchmark in the VET sector and by employers and industry. The paper, in conclusion, posits that inconsistent training practices and trainer qualifications could be minimized by utilizing a national, consensus-based standard on the training practices in health and safety training, which can be achieved through a competency specification.
This article examines contemporary research and views related to a currently observed rise in ext... more This article examines contemporary research and views related to a currently observed rise in extremist views and social actions. The analysis delves into the multifaceted nature of right-wing and left-wing extremism, exploring their ideological foundations, psychological and social influences, and the diverse forms of activism and violence associated with each. The commentary highlights the ideological fluidity and adaptability within extremist movements, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research and early intervention programs to mitigate radicalization. Additionally, the research underscores the critical role of public perception and media representation in shaping narratives around extremism, advocating for responsible media reporting and the development of counter-narratives. Legal and political frameworks are examined, with recommendations for reforms to better address the specific challenges posed by different forms of extremism. The analysis also identifies the intersection of extremism with broader social issues, such as racism, sexism, and economic inequality, and calls for comprehensive policies that promote social cohesion and inclusivity. By integrating these insights into prevention, education, and legal strategies, the article aims to contribute to the discussions related to a more stable and inclusive society that can effectively counter the evolving threat of extremism.
Crane operators control mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move and place objects at locations ... more Crane operators control mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move and place objects at locations such as building and construction sites, wharves and shipyards. This activity occurs all over the world and is a high risk task with many noted examples of serious incidents and accidents. There are identifiable key causes that have been noted through analysis of the well documented cases and many of these causes are preventable through effective training programs. Internationally, there are not currently consistent approaches to crane operator training program content or duration. Leading causes of crane accidents are firstly discussed and identified as areas for inclusion in training programs. A number of current training approaches from a range of countries are then considered and these are used to outline the basis of a generic competency standard for crane operation, as it was found that there are not common standards in place. The proposed competency standard can be adapted by training regulators, training providers, government agencies, industry bodies and enterprises as a benchmark for the development of effective training programs.
This article explores approaches to assessment of competence against nationally recognized units ... more This article explores approaches to assessment of competence against nationally recognized units of competency and considers these approaches with regard to the intent of the underpinning units of competency and the notion of compliance with the Standards for Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) 2015, in particular Clause 1.8. Specifically, the review investigates whether components of units of competency, such as performance criteria and performance evidence should be used as observation criteria for performance assessment tasks used to determine competence. The article concludes that the intent of a unit of competency is embodied in its components, and that units of competency outline competency standards. Given that units of competency provide a benchmark for assessment, they should be used as such. The benchmark can then be used for consistent approach to assessment and any assessment tool review or validation activities and can thus potentially limit the amount of non-compliances experienced in the vocational education and training sector. In order to do so, assessment tools should, for practical observation tasks include observation criteria that duplicate the performance criteria and performance evidence of a unit of competency together with robust task definitions. Using common benchmarks increases the likelihood that another Assessor would make the same judgement, based upon the same evidence.
This paper considers and describes the cool burning techniques long utilized by Australian Indige... more This paper considers and describes the cool burning techniques long utilized by Australian Indigenous people as a contributor to bushfire mitigation. Indigenous fire management involves lighting the "cool" fires in selected areas between March and July, in Australia, during the early dry season. The fires burn gradually, reducing fuel loads and creating fire breaks and not all of the area is burnt. Late in the dry season, when the weather is very hot, the method removes fuel for larger fires while maintaining and protecting habitat for mammals, reptiles, insects and birds. The management of Indigenous cultural fire offers an Indigenous viewpoint for wider control of fire and cultural fire management is an opportunity for collaborations to encourage Aboriginal empowerment with public and private sector organisations. Effective cool burning in contemporary prescribed burning activities can be achieved through implementation of good training, strong partnerships, carefully considered on ground practices and appropriate and effective techniques.
Social science, humanities and sustainability research, Nov 18, 2020
This article considers injuries related to crushing and methods of prevention and minimisation of... more This article considers injuries related to crushing and methods of prevention and minimisation of such injuries, particularly from the perspective of plant operations, where a crush injury occurs when the body or a body part is trapped, pinched or jammed under or between objects (Victoria State Government., 2020). A safe system of work, underpinned by worker awareness, should be implemented and maintained in all load shifting operations in order to minimise or prevent crush injury risks. Employers and workers should participate in inductions, safety meetings and consultation activities to ensure that they are aware of best practices to control crush hazards.
This paper utilises a qualitative literature review to highlight the shift to learner-centred met... more This paper utilises a qualitative literature review to highlight the shift to learner-centred methodologies in vocational education and training and profile the applications of trauma informed approaches to address learner needs and increase learner inclusion and chances of success. The discussion begins by identifying the need for trauma informed approaches in delivery related to technical and further education and workplace settings. The characteristics of trauma informed training environments are then considered such that the professional development needs of trainers can be established. The paper presents a model competency statement that can be used to develop training programs for trainers working in vocational education and training. The model competency statement, entitled "Utilise trauma informed training practices", can be used as a basis for development of accredited programs, nationally recognised units of competence, professional development programs or any other program related to implementation of trauma informed approaches in an adult training setting.
This discussion paper firstly identifies high risk work occupations and industries utilising Safe... more This discussion paper firstly identifies high risk work occupations and industries utilising Safe Work Australia data and then profiles those engaged in these occupations. The profiles lead to an understanding of the educational background of those workers most at risk and allows identification of training gaps. A range of promotion and incentive mechanisms are presented that encourage skilling and upskilling in areas focusing on the knowledge and skills that may contribute to mitigating the risks associated with the identified mechanisms of injury fatality. A range of stakeholders, including employers, training providers, industry skills councils and Government, are considered in terms of the contribution they can make in actively working toward reducing the occurrence of injury and fatality in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing and Transport, Postal and Warehousing industries as experienced by Machinery Operators and Drivers and Labourers.
This exploratory paper considers the practical and theoretical implications of a graded system of... more This exploratory paper considers the practical and theoretical implications of a graded system of assessment in competency-based training within the Australian Vocational Education and Training System. The characteristics of competency-based training are considered and the possible relationships to graded approaches are discussed. The discussion reflects on prominent research in the competency-based assessment domain, including Peddie (1993), Williams and Bateman (2003) and Newton (2018b) to consider the limitations and applications of various models.
This paper, primarily based on a literature review, considers the utilization of adult learning p... more This paper, primarily based on a literature review, considers the utilization of adult learning principles in training learners to operate high risk equipment. Vocational Education and Training sectors throughout the world are traditionally responsible for training delivery in these areas where generally andragogical principles as defined by Knowles (1970), are applied with, in some cases, application of a heutagogical approach, as outlined by Hase and Kenyon (2000). Aside from considering these approaches, a new approach is proposed, referred to as authology, with a basis of including notions of responsibility and duty of care in adult learning. There are numerous training programs in vocational education and training, such as those related to high risk equipment and plant operation, for which development of learner responsibility is a critical component in the training given the potential to cause harm, injury or fatality.
Cyber-attacks are a growing and persistent threat to water infrastructure, including drinking wat... more Cyber-attacks are a growing and persistent threat to water infrastructure, including drinking water and wastewater systems. Water infrastructure uses a number of technical control systems to manage and track infrastructure properties, including hardware and software, such as monitoring and data acquisition systems, process control systems, and other devices, such as programmable logic controllers, that control data gathering equipment and information technology. As these systems become more connected to corporate systems and the internet, security approaches are needed equally across both the control system and the corporate network infrastructure, as there are many potential entry points for cyber attackers to exploit to these systems. These cyber-attacks occur on water infrastructure worldwide and water providers, in order to reduce the risks, need to identify control system asset security vulnerabilities and design, build and maintain a security architecture proportionate to the risk. Human resources are fundamental to these cybersecurity systems and the required emerging job roles require industry specific definition. This paper provides definition on the roles and responsibilities for control system security governance, particularly from the perspective of skills and knowledge and training requirements with a view to addressing leading industry security standards for control systems and practices.
Since 1996, the CCS approach has been used in Canada (Weyburn-Midale), and since 2000, Norway (Sl... more Since 1996, the CCS approach has been used in Canada (Weyburn-Midale), and since 2000, Norway (Sleipner). Boundary Dam (Canada, 2014) and Petra Nova (USA, 2017) are two coal sector projects which have also begun operations with CCS. Coal21 [4] recognizes that there are opportunities to commercially apply CCS technology, such as the Gorgon Project in Western Australia, which will be the world's largest of its kind. In the Callide Oxyfuel project capturing CO 2 at an operating power station in Queensland, and the CO 2 CRC that injects CO 2 into a depleted gas field in the Otway Ranges of Victoria, the technology has also been successfully demonstrated. The Global CCS Institute reports 18 commercialscale CCS facilities globally in service (Norway, Canada, USA, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, China), with a further 5 being planned. A further 20 are at various stages of worldwide development [5]. Carbon capture and storage is being investigated internationally since
International journal for innovation education and research, May 1, 2020
This discussion paper considers the benefits of promotion of qualification pathways related to in... more This discussion paper considers the benefits of promotion of qualification pathways related to individual career pathways for new entrants and current workers in the Australian construction industry. Benefits are considered from an individual, organisational and social view accounting for licencing and health and safety obligations in the industry. The paper condones the promotion of training pathway programs, particularly those that increase in level and stimulate upskilling. Increases in uptake of pathways programs linked to career objectives can have a positive impact on recognised skill shortage occupations and enhance skills in younger workers in an industry subject to an aging workforce. Registered Training Organisations and government agencies are encouraged to develop innovative ways to increase the uptake of pathways and to ensure retention through the range of qualifications completed.
There is currently, and historically, a high rate of workplace incidents and fatalities in the Au... more There is currently, and historically, a high rate of workplace incidents and fatalities in the Australian Agricultural sector. This paper considers the use of coaching as a mechanism for provision of best practice safety training and development of a safety culture in Agricultural work places, particularly based on the current industry profiles and preferred methods of workplace learning. Current studies, including Safe Work Australia and AgHealth Australia data, and literature, such as Krauesslar and Passmore (2015) and Somes (2018), are reviewed to explain how coaching can enable workers to feel motivated and involved in workplace safety, and in effect, reducing the incidence of workplace injuries and fatalities. As such, the paper considers 'what is the most successful training method to develop a stronger health and safety culture in the Agricultural Sector?' The discussion finds that the most commonly and most effective learning approaches utilized in agricultural settings are based on 'farmers learning from farmers'. This is effectively a coaching approach, and in turn, workplace coaching should be considered as a generic foundation skill taught to all workers in Agriculture to encourage effective consultation practices and communication between workers. The development of coaching skills can occur through their inclusion in formal training programs, such Certificate III or IV level programs in Vocational Education and Training and through short specific targeted programs.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) plays a significant role in the development of work ready... more Vocational Education and Training (VET) plays a significant role in the development of work ready individuals and a significant component of a work readiness is the ability to undertake work in a safe manner. This discussion paper aims to outline the various roles played by stakeholders in the VET sector in shaping the development of "safe workers" and increasing the effectiveness of training provided by the VET sector, particularly related to licenced outcome training. The discussion investigates methods to manage and integrate stakeholder expectations and requirements across the various contributors to the training and assessment processes. Current practices are noted and considered with an identification of potential gaps, particularly in stakeholder communication and knowledge, including the dissemination of relevant information. Issues related to the complexity created where the training and assessment practices are regulated by multiple regulators are highlighted as a primary focus of the study. The paper concludes by proposing establishment of an independent group of technical experts across the range of applicable regulations requirements to provide authoritative support to the VET sector.
International Journal of Learning and Development, Jun 25, 2020
A number of activities in workplaces, such as such as those including cutting, grinding, sanding,... more A number of activities in workplaces, such as such as those including cutting, grinding, sanding, drilling, loading or demolishing products that contain silica, can produce respirable particles of crystalline silica dust that are small enough to inhale. Inhalation of crystalline silica can cause silicosis which is incurable. Work practices are critical to prevent the condition from occurring and safe work practices are as relevant to workplaces as they are to training environments. This study considers methods of risk control and training practices such that silicosis is prevented. Training requirements are profiled in a vocational education and training setting and must include: crystalline silica hazards and health risks, including silicosis; effective use controls; use and maintenance of personal protective equipment, including Respiratory Protective Equipment; safe waste disposal; and, practices for personal decontamination. The training environment must be designed in a manner to allow for engineering controls, such as on-tool water suppression or on-tool dust extraction, to be utilised.
International Journal of Vocational Education and Training Research, 2020
This paper aims to examine qualification rationalization processes in Vocational Education and Tr... more This paper aims to examine qualification rationalization processes in Vocational Education and Training internationally to establish lessons learned such that they can be applied to the Australian system. Current interest in rationalization in Australia is being driven by research undertaken by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment, and promoted by the Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison.. They suggest that the current system is difficult to understand and use, and outline that the system would benefit from a reduction in the number of qualifications currently on offer. Zero or minimal uptake is the most commonly documented approach to qualification rationalization internationally and is most effective when paired with a process of stakeholder consultation and engagement. Effective consultation should be inclusive of training providers, enterprises, social partners, employment services, public authorities and research organisations to ensure qualifications on offer meet industry and social needs. Care should be taken to ensure rationalization does not deplete flexibility in the system that has intentionally been embedded to allow qualifications to match workplace requirements. The benefits in ensuring units of competency and qualifications are promptly updated and adapted to emerging needs rather than rationalized are noted. The 'updating' approach could be paired with an education program for users of the system and a program of stakeholder marketing to ensure that the system is fully understood by all those who use it.
International Journal of Vocational Education and Training Research, 2020
Effective health and safety training can contribute to a reduction of workplace accidents and ass... more Effective health and safety training can contribute to a reduction of workplace accidents and assist employers to meet their health and safety legal obligations as prescribed by health and safety legislation. This paper considers the competency requirements for trainers of health and safety within the Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) context from a standards perspective. Currently, there are not specific specified requirements for these trainers, but rather generic requirements that apply to all trainers in the VET sector. An interpretive qualitative method utilizing observations based on a review of a range of sources, including published research, standards documents, general internet sources and industry publications is applied such that the health and safety training practices and environments in the VET sector are explored and described. Health and safety training, in order to be effective, warrants careful attention to the training environment, the training practices implemented and the skills and knowledge of the trainer. The role of standards for health and safety training, with ANSI/ASSE Z490.1-2016 and CAN/CSA Z1001-18b provided as examples, is considered and a these standards provide a basis for a proposed standardization for health and safety training practitioners in the Australian VET system. The findings offer inclusion of a specific training and assessment unit of competency in the TAE Training and Education Training Package to address the specific requirements for safety trainers, which then be used as a benchmark in the VET sector and by employers and industry. The paper, in conclusion, posits that inconsistent training practices and trainer qualifications could be minimized by utilizing a national, consensus-based standard on the training practices in health and safety training, which can be achieved through a competency specification.
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Papers by Richard Skiba