The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) has released a document outlining key research messages for 2022. The messages are based on research conducted throughout the previous year, and they provide insights into trends and issues in vocational education and training (VET) in Australia.
The NCVER research messages for 2022 was undertaken by the Australian Government and state and territory governments to shape NCVER’s research focus regarding the VET industry. Three broad categories became the guiding point of the publications:
- COVID-19 pandemic
- VET delivery and practice
- VET student engagement and outcomes
Additionally, these three categories gave way for several themes and topics under them. Below are the highlights of NCVER’s research messages for 2022, compiled for easier reading.
NCVER Research Messages 2022: A Summary
The impact of COVID-19 on VET
COVID-19 has significantly affected the vocational education and training (VET) in Australia. The pandemic has caused disruptions to training, reduced demand for courses, and resulted in significant job losses. However, VET has also played a critical role in helping people upskill and reskill in response to the changing labour market.
The importance of digital skills
The pandemic has accelerated the importance of digital skills in the workforce, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years as said in NCVER’s research messages for 2022. Digital technologies are now a fundamental part of many jobs, and individuals who lack digital skills may struggle to find employment or advance their careers.
In the context of VET, digital skills are becoming increasingly important in many industries, including healthcare, finance, and information technology. VET providers are adapting their courses to ensure that students have the skills they need to succeed in the digital age. This includes providing training in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.
In addition to preparing students for specific jobs, digital skills can also provide individuals with transferable skills that are valuable across a range of industries. For example, skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication are essential in many digital roles, but they’re also important in other areas such as project management, customer service, and sales.
The benefits of micro-credentials
NCVER’s research messages for 2022 also highlight the benefits of micro-credentials, which are short, focused courses that allow students to develop specific skills or knowledge in a particular area. These courses are becoming more popular in VET, as they offer a flexible and cost-effective way for individuals to upskill and reskill. Micro-credentials can also help to meet the changing needs of the labour market, as they allow individuals to develop skills in response to emerging trends and technologies.
The importance of career guidance
Effective career guidance is crucial for individuals to make informed decisions about their education and career pathways. VET providers play a vital role in providing career guidance to students, and this support is becoming more important as the labour market evolves.
How RTOs Can Improve Based On The NCVER Research Messages 2022 Report
Overall, the NCVER’s research messages for 2022 present important findings about the state of vocation education and training (VET) in Australia. The report underscores the need to address the obstacles encountered by VET providers and workers, while also capitalising on the potential of technology advancements and evolving industry requirements. By doing so, VET can continue to be a key player in preparing workers for the changing landscape.
