EDF2808

Policy and change in adult education and training ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Mr D Anderson

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit introduces students to the core concepts and processes relating to policy making in the field of adult learning and development in both the public and private sectors. Recent government policy reforms are examined, including trends towards workplace learning, competency-based training, managerialism and markets in adult and vocational education and training, and their impact on, and implications for, adult educators and learners are explored. Opportunities are provided for students to acquire skills in the development and critical analysis of policy.

Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit students should have developed an understanding of the core concepts and processes relating to policy and policy making in the field of adult learning and development in both the public and private sectors; knowledge of recent policy reforms, including the National Training Framework and their inter-relationships with wider political, social and economic developments; an appreciation of the ways in which recent policy reforms have affected practitioners working with adult learners in diverse workplace and community settings; and skills in the development and analysis of policy from a critical perspective.

Assessment: All tasks negotiated but equivalent in total to 4,000 words: 1. Report 1500 words (30%); 2. Case study 2,500 words (70%)

Contact Hours: 2 hours per week