Three new Flexible Learning Toolboxes (Toolboxes) have just been released by the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework.

These Toolboxes were developed in consultation with Industry Skills Councils and have been upgraded to Series 12 specifications, with content designed to meet changed Training Package requirements. Learning objects from these Toolboxes are also available from the Toolbox Repository.

TAA E-learning E-lectives (12.10)

The TAA E-learning Electives Toolbox supports the delivery of three units from the e-learning stream of the Diploma in Training and Assessment (TAA50104) that can also be used as chosen elective/s in either the Certificate IV or the Diploma qualifications. This Toolbox also acts as a useful professional development tool for trainers and assessors that would like to develop their skills as an e-learning facilitator and/or designer of e-learning resources.

The scenario based learning approach is developed around Optimal Learning Solutions (OLS), a fictitious registered training organisation providing training and assessment services to a range of government, private and industry bodies. It is designed to complement the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment Toolbox (607) which is also based on OLS.

Cybertots (12.11)

The Cybertots Toolbox supports delivery of the Certificate III in Community Services (Children’s Services). The revamped Toolbox immerses the learner in a virtual child care centre allowing them to experience the role of a caregiver. Through problem-based projects and communication activities in which they interact with the workers and children at Cybertots, learners develop skills and knowledge necessary for working in the child care profession.

Units of competency are grouped into projects, with each project containing one or more sections to focus learning on a particular skills set or area of knowledge. This approach reflects the way learners are assessed in the workplace, allowing them to follow a natural learning progression.

The Toolbox prepares the learner for workplace assessment where they can put the skills learnt into practice, and also offers a skills recognition tool to support RPL (recognition of prior learning) processes.

Small Business Management (12.12)

This Toolbox covers 10 units of competency from the Certificate IV in Small Business Management (BSB40407). Each competency provides a variety of information and activities to support qualifications in managing a small business.

The Toolbox is designed to:

• assist people working in or planning to work in small business
• provide small business owners and managers with a range of skills and competencies to enable them to establish and grow their small business ventures.

Learners can work through an entire unit of competency, or simply explore specific topics or activities of personal interest.

After choosing a unit of competency, learners are presented with an overarching task requiring them to apply the knowledge and skills associated with the unit to a small business. Learners may choose to apply this task to their own business, another business that they can access or one of the example businesses provided within the Toolbox.

For more information about Toolboxes, visit http://flexiblelearning.net.au/toolboxes