Assessing competence: an overview of current problems and trends in Australia

This paper looks at similarities and differences between Australia's approach to adopting a competency-based education and training system and the system of National Vocational Qualifications in the UK. The author argues that both systems are driven by politicians and bureaucrats determined to implement the changes without a sound research and development base.

It is suggested that the differences between the two systems are the source of many of the current problems experienced in adopting a competency-based education and training system. Differences discussed are in the areas of industrial relations and recognition of training.

The paper concludes with a prediction that content will be all-important in ensuring we have a workable system of competency-based training. The competency standards must specify content in much more detail than is currently the case. The content in turn provides the basis for the assessment processes and evidence of competence. Show less