The Role of ASQA Volume of Learning in Australian RTOs

In Australia, the vocational education and training (VET) system is regulated to ensure that students receive high-quality training that aligns with industry standards and prepares them for the workforce. One of the critical regulatory elements that Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) must adhere to is the concept of Volume of Learning. This aspect plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of VET qualifications, ensuring that the amount of training provided to students meets the requirements set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).

Understanding Volume of Learning

The Volume of Learning refers to the total time a student is expected to spend in achieving a qualification, including not only the formal training hours but also additional time for assessment, self-study, and other learning activities that contribute to the acquisition of knowledge and skills. It is a concept that underpins the design of training programs and assessments within RTOs, ensuring that qualifications are delivered in a structured and comprehensive manner.

ASQA, as the national regulator for VET, has established guidelines around the Volume of Learning for each qualification level within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). These guidelines are intended to ensure that qualifications reflect the true time commitment required to achieve the necessary competencies, ensuring that learners are given the opportunity to fully develop the skills and knowledge required for their field.

The Importance of Volume of Learning in RTOs

For RTOs, adhering to the Volume of Learning requirements is essential not only for regulatory compliance but also for delivering training that is both effective and meaningful. The concept ensures that the duration of training aligns with the qualification's complexity and level, thereby allowing learners to develop the competencies necessary for their chosen industry or occupation.

RTOs are required to design and deliver training and assessment that meet the expectations of the Volume of Learning for each qualification. This ensures that the learning process is not rushed, and that students have sufficient time to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to meet the requirements of the qualification.

When RTOs fail to meet the prescribed Volume of Learning, they risk undermining the quality of education and the integrity of the qualification. This can lead to students not being adequately prepared for employment, which can negatively affect the reputation of the RTO and the value of the qualification.

ASQA and the AQF

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) sets out the guidelines for the Volume of Learning required at each qualification level. ASQA ensures that RTOs follow these guidelines when developing and delivering courses. The AQF outlines the following general expectations for Volume of Learning at each qualification level:

• Certificate I and II qualifications typically have a Volume of Learning of 0.5 to 1 year. These qualifications are designed for entry-level work and require less in-depth training compared to higher-level qualifications.

• Certificate III and IV qualifications generally require 1 to 2 years of full-time study. These qualifications are usually aimed at people preparing for skilled work and can require a more significant commitment to both practical and theoretical learning.

• Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas usually have a Volume of Learning of 1.5 to 2 years. These qualifications are designed for individuals in roles that require specialist knowledge and skills.

• Graduate Certificates and Diplomas involve more advanced learning and typically require a minimum of 1 to 1.5 years of study.

The AQF also sets expectations for each qualification level's complexity, with higher-level qualifications requiring more time for learners to master advanced knowledge and skills. RTOs must design their training programs in accordance with these expectations, ensuring that the Volume of Learning is appropriate for the content and level of the qualification.

The Role of RTOs in Managing Volume of Learning

For an RTO, managing the Volume of Learning involves careful planning and resource allocation. RTOs must ensure that their training programs are structured to reflect the appropriate amount of time needed for students to gain the required skills and knowledge.

This means that RTOs must take into account several factors, including the complexity of the course material, the mode of delivery (e.g., face-to-face, online, blended), the method of assessment, and the needs of the learners themselves. The training and assessment strategy developed by the RTO should reflect the time commitment expected for each unit or qualification, ensuring that it matches the Volume of Learning defined by ASQA and the AQF.

Additionally, RTOs must ensure that learners have access to the right support to meet these learning expectations. This can include providing resources for additional learning outside of class, such as study materials, online tools, and opportunities for workplace learning or practical experience. Effective student support services are crucial to ensuring that students are not only meeting the Volume of Learning requirements but are also receiving the full benefit of their training.

Implications for Quality Assurance

ASQA places significant importance on the Volume of Learning when conducting audits and ensuring compliance among RTOs. If an RTO is found to be providing training that is either too short or too long in comparison to the Volume of Learning expected for a qualification, it could face significant consequences. These might include non-compliance findings, penalties, or even the suspension or cancellation of the RTO’s registration.

In this context, RTOs must take extra care when structuring their training programs, ensuring that they are not only meeting the minimum required hours but also delivering high-quality, comprehensive training that allows learners to meet industry standards. ASQA’s role in overseeing compliance with the Volume of Learning requirement is to protect the integrity of the VET sector, ensuring that qualifications awarded by RTOs are credible and reflect the true level of competency that employers expect from graduates.