ASQA’s Regulatory Strategy announces online learning focus and provider support
The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) released today its 2020-22 ASQA Regulatory Strategy, outlining its regulatory priorities to support improved training outcomes for VET and VET delivery for secondary school students across Australia.
ASQA Chief Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Saxon Rice, said the regulatory priorities reflect the ongoing disruption for providers, students and employers caused by the recent bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic and sit against ASQA’s implementation of regulatory reform arising from its recent Rapid Review.
Online learning has been identified as a priority area, following the widespread transition to online training in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Providers have raised a range of concerns and challenges with ASQA, arising from the rapid transition to online learning. There is recognition across the sector that the lessons learned from the transition to online training delivery presents opportunities to improve the future delivery of VET.
“We will undertake a strategic review of online learning, working with providers and stakeholders to understand the benefits, opportunities and challenges faced during this time of change and uncertainty,” said Ms Rice.
ASQA’s strategic review will seek to understand the benefits, opportunities and risks presented by online learning in VET and identify ways to provide further support and guidance to build sector capability.
Ms Rice said the regulatory priorities have been determined through an evidence-based approach drawing on contributions from stakeholders and feedback and a strong response to ASQA’s recent survey of provider views.
The Regulatory Strategy details how ASQA will continue to work with the sector to support providers to maintain quality training.
“ASQA’s approach to reform, regulatory activity and increased education and engagement make it well-positioned to support the sector to continue to deliver high-quality training outcomes during a time of continuing change,” finished Ms Rice.