A systematic review of research is a decision-making tool for policy and practice. It is a piece of research in its own right, using explicit and rigorous methods that follow a standard set of stages: (1) to identify; (2) critically appraise; and (3) synthesize relevant research (both published and unpublished) to answer a specific question. This…

This study investigates where certificate I and II qualifications lead young people aged 15-24 years in terms of employment and further study. A prime motivation for young people undertaking these qualifications is to facilitate transition into the labour market. These qualifications are aimed at developing basic vocational skills or preparatory…

This systematic review of research provides evidence to enable vocational education and training (VET) policy-makers and practitioners to act and move forward in developing training that meets the aspirations and needs of Indigenous Australians. The project forms part of a coordinated program of research developed by the National Centre for…

This publication explores adult literacy and numeracy. In particular, it draws on major insights from research conducted during 2003 and 2004 for the Adult Literacy National Project funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Education, Science and Training. Key messages include: (1) Literacy and numeracy skills are shaped by…

This publication presents the results of a comprehensive research program on Indigenous Australians in vocational education and training (VET), along with feedback from over 200 people who attended the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) Research Forum on Indigenous VET in August 2005. The planning and implementation of the…

Vocational education and training (VET) programs for young people have significantly expanded over the past decade.This publication provides an overview of all the different VET options and details the emerging benefits and outcomes of the options that fall within the recognised VET framework. Current implementation issues are also summarised.…

Research messages 2004 is a collection of summaries on all research projects published or completed by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research in 2004. It is the first year such a product has been produced by NCVER. The summaries are clustered under five broad themes used by NCVER to organize all of its VET research and analysis: (1)…

This publication, presented in pocket guide format, contains highlights from the 2004 vocational education and training (VET) statistics collection. It also includes key data on VET, apprentices and trainees' training activity, and information on technical and further education (TAFE) graduates obtained from the 2004 Student Outcomes Survey. Among…

It is well documented that individuals with poor verbal, reading and writing skills face disadvantages. However, many individuals with such difficulties lead successful lives. This project investigated the ways in which ten individuals have achieved success despite difficulties with literacy and learning. The life stories are presented in digital…

The development of a uniquely Australian system of innovation and its relation to the vocational education and training (VET) system is considered in this discussion paper. It asserts that the Australian system of innovation fits the pattern of incremental innovation and diffusion of technical knowledge. It focuses on arrangements prior to the…

The project investigates learning and career development services for adults, particularly those who are in some way disengaged from the labour market or educational systems. The study considers whether a single career development service model could be broadly applied. The study found that many older job seekers or those marginally employed…

This document was produced by the authors based on their research for the report, "Enhancing Career Development: The Role of Community-Based Career Guidance For Disengaged Adults." It includes the following: (1) Literature Review/Issues Paper; and (2) References. Appended are: (1) A Blueprint; and (2) Research Questions. [This document was…

The objective of this project was to examine existing literature and national data to identify key factors in achieving quality outcomes from shorter duration apprenticeships and traineeships. It was found that apprentices and trainees undertaking programs of two years or less have a higher rate of non-completion than those doing longer training…

This book of readings combines the results of a body of research on the funding and financing of vocational education and training (VET) in Australia. Funding arrangements, or how money is distributed, are described in the first section of this book and includes chapters on allocation of funding by state training authorities, the effects of market…

This booklet, part of the "Getting to Grips with..." series, gives teachers and trainers in vocational education and training some easily digestible information about learning styles. It provides practical tips on how to identify students' learning styles, and how to respond to individuals and groups based on their preferred methods of learning.…