Browsing by Author "Butterfield, Shona"

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    Technical and Vocational Education through Open Learning Trends, Developments and Issues from a Local Perspective
    (1999-03) Butterfield, Shona
    PCF1 // As we move from the industrial era into the knowledge age, the shape of the world of work is changing dramatically. In the emerging knowledge driven economy, the ability to learn and to process information effectively becomes the determining factor of prosperity. This paper examines trends, developments and issues in vocational education and training from a New Zealand perspective. Changing work patterns have been reflected in the diverse products and services provided by vocational education providers. New markets, business and partnerships have been established and participation has increased dramatically. Open learning in vocational education has much to offer the world of work because it is responsive, flexible, promotes independent learning, can be set up in a way that fosters teamwork as well as individual achievement and the immediate transfer of skills in the work setting. Open learning also reinforces qualities of self-reliance, mobility and rapid adjustment to change needed for survival in tomorrow’s world. That level of quality can only be met if the objectives are very clear, and both the process of learning and the system requirements for supporting that process are well understood. //