As an RTO, you would know the regulators' (the Australian Skills Quality Authority) requirements for Trainers and Assessors. ASQA states that an RTO must ensure that all trainers and assessors undertake professional development in - the knowledge and practice of vocational training, learning and assessment, and competency-based training and assessment. Having a professional development plan for your trainers is essential for every RTO.
If you want to learn more about these requirements, read the ASQA’s Fact sheet on ‘Meeting trainer and assessor requirements’ for more information.
Thus, continual professional development in the knowledge and practice of vocational training, learning, and assessment is essential for your trainers. This is particularly important in competency-based assessment and training.
WHAT IS COMPETENCY-BASED TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT?
Competency-based training refers to acquiring the skills and knowledge required to perform in various workplace situations effectively. An individual is evaluated on their skills against a desired set of training standards.
Professional development is not simply acquired through training and assessment but rather an activity carried out to enhance knowledge and skills.
As such, an RTO should be able to show how they have developed and effectively carried out a professional development plan that all trainers and assessors have participated in.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
Participation in both internal and external courses, taking workshops, seminars, and conferences
Demonstration of results of a recently completed VET product
Taking part in learning networks- This can be undertaken by joining professional organisations offering vocational assessment and skills training forums.
self-development through reading journals and publications
Through collaboration and interaction with fellow trainers and assessors
Any evidence of professional development should be noted, and positive results should be recorded. Your RTO must be supported by accurate and convincing evidence demonstrating professional development competency. Your RTO should be able to back up or validate any information that an assessor or trainer provides.
Below are several ways to verify:
Contacting the provider to verify the honesty of the evidence provided
Referee checks to verify the individual has obtained the required Industry-specific training.
Make sure any evidence collected is stored securely.
TIPS FOR MANAGING YOUR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
It is each trainer's responsibility to partake in personal development throughout the year, and it can quite often be challenging to keep track of all your PD if you don’t have sound systems in place.
A couple of handy tips:
Prepare for your PD as soon as you can. You should plan and choose opportunities that will benefit you the most.
Get the latest industry news and updates from your favourite social media groups.
Industry bodies post a wealth of helpful information on their pages to keep you up-to-date with changes in best practices, so stay up-to-date on changes in your profession and industry.
It's easier than ever to keep track of your professional development and accomplishments throughout the year. Just save anything you complete on the computer or phone in an easy-access folder. Each time you complete a course, read a publication, or attend an event, place the evidence into this folder for reference when you may be required to provide evidence of your PD to your RTO.
We can help you with your RTO’s professional development plan and any additional business services you may require for your RTO. Contact us today to learn more about our RTO consultant services to RTOs Australia-wide. Get in touch on 1300 833 424 or email info@rtointelligence.com.au
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