Understanding Work-Based Training (WBT)
By Mark Field
What is WBT?
WBT involves the majority of training and assessment occurring in a real workplace. WBT is a combination of Registered Training Organisation (RTO) guided theory-based learning (e-learning) and employer guided practical-based learning (on-the-job or off-the-job).
WBT is competency-based training (CBT), which means learners can progress once they have demonstrated competency. CBT means learners progress at a pace that suits them. They are not held back when they are ahead or pushed forward when they are not ready to progress. WBT allows learners to find the most efficient and effective path to achieving a qualification.
How is WBT different to traditional classroom-based training?
WBT is focussed on the specific needs of individual learners and not ‘a one shoe fits all’ classroom/group-based approach. Learning and assessment plans are created on an individual level in consultation with learners and their employers. WBT considers the wide range of different backgrounds and experiences of learners and applies this when developing individual learning and assessment strategies.
How is WBT delivered?
The sequence, timing and delivery of units of competency (UOC) are at the discretion of each learner in consultation with their employers and the RTO. The flexibility of WBT allows learners the ability to structure and perform learning and assessment in a way that fits into their professional and personal life.
WBT means every time a learner goes to work they are learning, demonstrating competence and in the same process working towards completing their qualification.
WBT assessment is conducted using numerous methods including practical demonstration and observation, question and answer interviews, written tasks and supervisor reports.
Who is responsible for WBT?
The RTO’s main role in WBT is to facilitate the learning process (provide learning materials and monitor and report learner progress) and conduct assessment when the learner is ready to be assessed.
The employer’s main role is to supervise and provide the learner with the ‘hands-on’ experience and the appropriate equipment/facilities and guidance to conduct and practice the required skills. WBT recognises that the employer plays the most significant role in the training and development of learners.
The learner’s main role is to make all reasonable efforts to acquire the skills of the vocation.