In Vocational Education and Training (VET), understanding how to calculate the Amount of Training (AoT) is essential for delivering high-quality and compliant courses. The AoT ensures that training aligns with industry needs, learner cohorts, and regulatory requirements, particularly under the Standards for RTOs 2015. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to determining the appropriate AoT for your VET courses, ensuring learner success and compliance.
What is the Amount of Training?
The AoT refers to the actual time learners spend acquiring the skills and knowledge outlined in a unit of competency or qualification. This includes structured learning activities, such as:
- Classroom sessions
- Online learning modules
- Practical training
- Assessment tasks
The AoT does not include self-paced study or work placement hours unless they are explicitly structured as part of the learning process.
Why is the AoT Important?
Calculating and adhering to the AoT is vital for several reasons:
- Compliance: Ensures alignment with ASQA standards and regulatory frameworks.
- Learner Readiness: Guarantees learners have sufficient time to acquire and demonstrate required competencies.
- Quality Training Delivery: Prevents rushed or inadequate training that could affect learner outcomes.
- Transparency: Provides clear expectations for learners and stakeholders.
Factors Influencing the Amount of Training
Learner Cohort Characteristics
- Prior Experience: Experienced learners may require less time to achieve competency compared to those new to the field.
- Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) Levels: Learners with lower LLN skills may need additional support and time.
- Learning Needs: Special learning needs may increase the AoT.
Delivery Mode
- Face-to-Face: Typically involves more structured training time.
- Online Learning: May require adjustments to include interactive activities.
- Blended Learning: Combines online and in-person components, requiring careful calculation of each mode’s contribution.
Industry Requirements
- Some qualifications demand hands-on training or specific hours of practical experience, influencing the AoT.
Qualification Level
- Higher-level qualifications, such as Diplomas, generally require more training time than Certificates.
Steps to Calculate the Amount of Training
Understand Training Package Requirements
- Review the training package or accredited course documentation to identify the nominal hours or recommended AoT.
- Align the AoT with the Volume of Learning (VoL) specified in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF):
- Certificate I–II: 0.5 to 1 year
- Certificate III–IV: 1 to 2 years
- Diploma–Advanced Diploma: 1 to 2 years
Consider Learner Cohort Characteristics
- Identify whether learners are new entrants or have prior experience in the field.
- Adjust the AoT for recognition of prior learning (RPL) or credit transfers.
Break Down Units of Competency
- Calculate the training time for each unit based on its complexity and requirements.
- Include time for theory, practical training, and assessments.
Incorporate Structured Learning Activities
- Classroom or virtual sessions
- Practical workshops
- Trainer-led discussions
- Assessment preparation and delivery
Exclude Non-Training Activities
- Remove time spent on unstructured self-study or activities unrelated to training outcomes.
Adjust for Delivery Mode
- For online and blended learning, factor in additional activities like interactive webinars or recorded lectures.
Validate with Stakeholders
- Consult industry representatives and trainers to ensure the AoT aligns with workplace expectations.
Example: Calculating AoT for a Certificate III Qualification
Step 1: Review Training Package
- The qualification specifies 1,200 nominal hours, including theoretical and practical training.
Step 2: Assess Learner Cohort
- For new learners: Full 1,200 hours
- For experienced workers with RPL: Reduced to 800 hours
Step 3: Break Down Units
- 10 units of competency (6 core + 4 electives):
- Core units: 80 hours each
- Elective units: 60 hours each
Step 4: Account for Delivery Mode
- Blended learning:
- 60% in-person training
- 40% online activities and assessments
Step 5: Validate with Stakeholders
- Adjust training times based on feedback from industry partners and trainers.