Course design and teaching
Working in true partnerships
Training providers need to establish strong multilateral partnerships, with communities at the centre. Mutual reciprocity ideally needs to be formalised so that inequalities are less likely to occur. This provides a means through which human and financial resources are shared to reduce duplication of effort (Balatti et al 2004, Kral & Falk 2004).
Flexibility in course design, content and delivery
Flexibility of systems, policies, funding and delivery allows for the easy adaptation of training programs to meet local needs and contexts (Kral & Falk 2004, Marika et al 2004). Young, Guenther & Boyle (2007) found there is a need to develop and improve the reliability, relevance and useability of information and communication technologies in providing and supplementing training, especially in rural and remote areas.
Quality staff and committed advocacy
Kemmis et al (2006) highlight that the commitment and understanding of all staff involved at various levels of the training system, from policy development to teaching delivery, is essential, as students feel that the most important aspect of effective training for them is the relationship they have with their teachers. The importance of the presence of Indigenous staff across the VET sector is paramount; a steady decline in Indigenous staff numbers remains a key issue that must be addressed by VET systems and providers. Kemmis et al (2006) suggest that a community development approach, rather than one driven by bureaucratic pressures, is most likely to build the Indigenous VET workforce.