Studying For Life
Sun Herald
Sunday June 23, 2002
Most jobs require formal qualifications these days and, John Dagge reports, there are many study options available.
LIFELONG learning has, in many ways, become the mantra of the modern workplace. As technology infiltrates all aspects of the workplace, the need to keep abreast of such changes is essential.
Unlike 50 years ago when more than 40 per cent of jobs required no post-school training, now only 12pc of jobs don't, figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show.
Apprenticeships and traineeships are now available in more than 500 occupations in industries ranging from the traditional such as construction and automotive to newer industries including local government, information technology and tourism.
Since the redevelopment of the apprenticeship scheme in 1996, nearly all jobs have had some formal training added to them. As such, educational institutions have become more flexible in how they design and administer their courses.
``There are definitely a lot more options for students," Southern Cross University admissions manager Julie Porter said.
``There are a lot more options in what you study, how you go about it, where you study and if you do it full-time, part-time or by correspondence.
``Institutions are also becoming more flexible in looking at entry requirements and we will now take into account things like previous work experience for course entry requirements."
Porter said the education industry was increasingly competitive, which had made studying more flexible.
Education providers have been forced to offer a wider range of options catering for students in a variety of circumstances from those who can study full-time to those in full-time employment.
Studying from home is one option that has experienced considerable growth in the past 10 years.
Australia has always had a fond association with distance education exemplified by the School of the Air tradition and new technologies such as video conferencing and the internet have increased its appeal.
Australian College of Journalism manager director and principal Julia Buxton said: ``The advent of the internet and e-mail has certainly supported distance education. It has enabled us to reach a broader market. Students can do a lot of research by the internet and they have fluid contact with the college and their tutors."
The Australian College of Journalism, which also co-ordinates courses in tourism, hospitality and business, runs all its degrees via distance education.
Buxton said distance education was no longer simply for those who lived in remote areas. People located in major cities may opt to do a course by correspondence, particularly those in full-time employment.
``The demographic is changing, it's for people with committed lives, careers and other heavy commitments," Buxton said.
``You can study in your own time at your own pace."
© 2002 Sun Herald