TAADEL404A

Facilitate work‑based learning

Unit Descriptor

This unit specifies the outcomes required to use work effectively as a learning process.

Competency Field

Delivery and Facilitation

Application of the Unit

Learning through work is an ongoing and everyday reality of being in work. However, the effectiveness of that learning can be shaped by interventions and actions that modify, direct and provide support to the workplace learner. This guided learning ensures a planned approach to learning through work activities, effective strategies to support the learning and appropriate monitoring and safeguards.

This unit addresses the processes, skills and knowledge involved in using the work process and the work environment as the basis for learning in the workplace.

Learning though work may contribute to an educational outcome, such as a qualification or Statement of Attainment; and/or a work outcome, such as learning how to use a new piece of equipment; and/or a personal outcome, such as extending an individual’s self‑esteem.

Providing a guided approach to work‑based learning is an essential component of any apprenticeship or traineeship arrangement and also has application in induction processes, change management processes and ongoing employee development.

The competency specified in this unit is typically required by trainers/facilitators, teachers, workplace supervisors, team leaders, human resource or industrial relations managers, consultants and any employee responsible for guiding learning through work.

Elements define the critical outcomes of a unit of competency.

The Performance Criteria specify the level of performance required to demonstrate achievement of the Element. Italicised terms are elaborated in the Range Statement.

1.      Establish an effective work environment for learning

1.1

The purpose or objectives of the work‑based learning are established and agreed with appropriate personnel

1.2

The areas of work encompassed by the work‑based learning are defined and documented

1.3

Work practices and routines are analysed to determine their effectiveness in meeting the work‑based learning objectives

1.4

Changes are proposed to work practices, routines and the work environment to support more effective learning, where appropriate, and discussed with relevant persons

1.5

Occupational health and safety (OHS) and industrial relations implications of using work as the basis for learning are identified and addressed

2.      Develop a work‑based learning pathway

2.1

The documented work areas are analysed to determine an effective work‑based learning pathway

2.2

Organisational strategies to support the work‑based learning are proposed

2.3

Any contractual requirements and responsibilities for learning at work are addressed

2.4

Connections are made with the training and/or assessment organisation to integrate and monitor the external learning activities with the work‑based learning pathway where relevant

2.5

The proposed work‑based learning pathway is evaluated against appropriate criteria

2.6

Agreement is obtained from relevant personnel to implement the work‑based learning pathway

3.      Implement the work‑based learning pathway

3.1

The learners’ profile and characteristics are evaluated to determine possible requirements for support

3.2

The purposes/objectives for undertaking work‑based learning and the processes involved are clearly explained to the learners

3.3

The introduction of workplace tasks, activities and processes is sequenced to reflect the agreed work‑based learning pathway

3.4

Agreed organisational strategies are put into effect

3.5

Relations with other work personnel affected by the work‑based learning pathway are managed to ensure effective implementation

3.6

Appropriate communication and interpersonal skills are used to develop a collaborative relationship with learners

4.      Monitor learning and address barriers to effective participation

4.1

Access and equity considerations are addressed, where appropriate

4.2

The readiness of the worker to participate in and/or take on new tasks and responsibilities is effectively monitored

4.3

Work performances are observed and alternative approaches suggested where needed

4.4

Learners are encouraged to take responsibility for learning and to self‑reflect

4.5

Techniques for learners to demonstrate transferability of skills and knowledge are developed

4.6

OHS requirements are monitored to ensure health, safety and welfare

4.7

Feedback is provided to learners about work performance and success is communicated and acknowledged

5.      Review the effectiveness of the work‑based learning pathway

5.1

Work performance and learning achievement are documented and recorded in accordance with legal/organisational requirements

5.2

Learners are encouraged to provide critical feedback on their learning experiences

5.3

The effectiveness of the work‑based pathway is evaluated against the objectives, processes and models used

5.4

The effectiveness of any integration of work‑based learning and external learning activities is assessed

5.5

Improvements and changes to work‑based practice are recommended in light of the review process