ASQA announces new regulatory strategy with online learning focus and provider support

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) recently released its 2020-22 ASQA Regulatory Strategy, outlining its regulatory priorities to support improved training outcomes for the vocational education and training (VET) sector and VET delivery for secondary school students across Australia.

Saxon Rice, ASQA Chief Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, 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.

Given the nature of the challenges in 2020, online learning has been identified as a priority area, reflecting the widespread transition to online training in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including for those undertaking training or professional development in the area of early childhood education and care (ECEC).

“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” Ms Rice said, noting that ASQA will undertake a strategic review of online learning, working with providers and stakeholders.

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.

Regulatory priorities, Ms Rice said, 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, with the strategy outlining details of how ASQA will continue to work with the sector to support providers to maintain quality training.

The approach taken by ASQA in relation 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,” Ms Rice concluded.

To access the strategy, please see here.