NT Indigenous communities will have greater access to computer-based learning with new funding awarded to Charles Darwin University and its NT vocational training partners.
The Australian Flexible Learning Framework announced $200,000 funding for e-learning innovation projects that meet local education and training priorities.
CDU is involved in three of the seven projects awarded to the NT. The projects use innovative and creative visual-based technologies to educate and inspire.
The university is partnering with education providers Bachelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education (BIITE), Desart, CHARTTES Training Advisory Council, and Isee-ilearn on three individual projects.
The first project involves working with BIITE and Desart (the Association of Central Australian Aboriginal Art and Craft Centres) using a new online recognition of prior learning assessment tool “Competency Navigator” and the creation of e-portfolios for Indigenous artists.
The portfolios will merge visuals, electronic records of artists’ formal and informal learning and their life and work experiences. CDU and BITTE will work with Desart to identify artists interested in extra formal training leading to work at art centres.
A second project involves working with the CHARRTES Training Advisory Council and will encourage Indigenous people to introduce and train others to use multi-media programs.
This project will build a web-based/cd resource to assist Indigenous people with skills in the fields of technology, multi-media, art, film and music to move into training or facilitating using e-tools.
It will prepare them for new work opportunities and serve as a resource that can be used for their training delivery in the future.
The third project will use an interactive computer program with students working in CDU’s Language Literacy and Numeracy Programs (LLNPs) in remote communities to increase their spoken English skills.
The software, from vendor Isee-Ilearn, engages students to use their own language to facilitate their learning of English and maths.
Melanie Brenton, executive officer of the NT Services and Training Advisory Council and Australian Flexible Learning Framework's Manager for the NT E-learning Innovations Projects, said applications for funding were of a high standard.
“This validates my view that the NT is a nationwide leader in vocational training innovation and CDU, like the other winners, are demonstrating creative vocational training strategies,” she said.
“I am excited to see organisations using lateral approaches to vocational training for Indigenous communities."
Projects begin this month with final reports due in late November.