[vet-mm] Examiners Report 06

[claire]

Hi Paul,
I don't think Cert. III is aimed too high for VET in schools. Perhaps others disagree and would say the scripting module is too hard, but I think some teachers would say that the way in which the examiners interpret this module is too hard. A subtle difference but very important.

Certainly, it has been acknowledged many times that there is insufficient time in a typical secondary school to come anywhere near the recommended hours for the Cert III modules. If any school has achieved it, I'd love to pay them a visit! So this is definitely an issue with the training package in schools.

However, I believe most of us do a pretty good job of covering the demands of the course, particularly given the training package is deliberately vague and is not a curriculum document as such. 
My understanding is that it is written so it can be applied to a variety of training situations. It has built in flexibility and is supposed to be adapted to the training environment. Terms like "broad knowledge of...." can be intrepreted in many ways and could vary in different workplaces.
So whilst most teachers would like a clearer curriculum, I think we can, and do, adapt the training package in a meaningful way. 

As I see it, the problem lies in trying to assess something as vague, yet adaptable, as a training package with a state-wide exam. VCAA sets an exam but teachers have very little to guide them in what might be assessed. From my point of view, I wish the examiners (ie those employed by VCAA) could make their interpretation of the training package clear to us. Then we might understand the level that is expected. We may then conclude we do not have the time or resources to teach to that level but who really knows? 

My 2 cents worth...
Claire Bloom
Warrandyte High

PS does anyone know where the review of the training package is at...due soon?