How to Calculate the Amount of Training for VET Courses?

When delivering vocational education and training (VET) courses, Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) must comply with the Standards for RTOs 2015, ensuring that the amount of training provided is sufficient to equip students with the required skills and knowledge. Calculating the “Amount of Training” (AoT) is a critical step in creating compliant, effective training plans that meet both student and industry needs. This article explores the steps involved in calculating AoT and the key considerations for ensuring compliance.

Understanding the Amount of Training

The Amount of Training refers to the structured learning activities delivered to students as part of a VET course. This includes face-to-face training, online learning, workplace training, and other structured activities. AoT is part of the broader Volume of Learning, which encompasses not only structured training but also unstructured learning, independent study, and practice time.

While the Volume of Learning provides a broad guideline (e.g., 1,200 to 2,400 hours for a Diploma qualification), AoT focuses on the structured component and varies based on the student cohort and course delivery mode.

Key Factors in Calculating AoT

1. Student Cohort Characteristics
   Understanding your learners is essential for determining the appropriate AoT. Consider:
   • Their existing skills, knowledge, and experience.
   • Whether they are new to the field or have relevant prior learning (e.g., Recognition of Prior Learning or Credit Transfer).
   • The level of support they may need to achieve competency.
2. Qualification and Unit Requirements
   Review the training package or accredited course requirements to determine the competencies learners must achieve. The AoT should align with these requirements, including both theoretical and practical components.
3. Mode of Delivery
   The delivery mode significantly impacts AoT:
   • Face-to-Face: Typically requires more structured hours compared to self-paced online learning.
   • Online Learning: May require supplementary resources or extended support to ensure learners grasp the material.
   • Workplace-Based Learning: Requires careful planning to integrate workplace tasks with formal learning objectives.
4. Training and Assessment Strategy (TAS)
   Your TAS must clearly outline the AoT for the course. This ensures transparency and helps assessors, trainers, and auditors understand how training is delivered to meet competency standards.

Steps to Calculate the Amount of Training

1. Review the Volume of Learning Guidelines
   Refer to the AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) Volume of Learning benchmarks for the qualification level (e.g., Certificate III, Certificate IV, Diploma). These benchmarks act as a starting point.
2. Adjust Based on the Cohort
   For experienced learners or those with prior qualifications, the AoT can be reduced accordingly. For learners new to the field, the AoT should align closely with the full Volume of Learning.
3. Break Down Training Components
   Divide the AoT into categories such as:
   • Classroom or online theory-based learning.
   • Practical, hands-on training sessions.
   • Assessment activities and simulations.
4. Include Assessment Hours
   While assessment activities are distinct from training, the time required to complete assessments is part of the AoT calculation.
5. Document in the TAS
   Clearly specify the AoT for each unit of competency within the TAS, detailing how structured training will be delivered to meet competency requirements.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Underestimating AoT for New Learners
   Failing to provide sufficient AoT can lead to non-compliance with the Standards for RTOs and poor student outcomes.
2. Over-Reliance on RPL and Credit Transfer
   While RPL and Credit Transfer reduce the AoT, over-reliance without proper evidence can lead to audit issues.
3. Inconsistent Documentation
   Ensure that the AoT is consistently documented across the TAS, marketing materials, and enrolment information to avoid discrepancies.

Read More:

https://www.vetadvisorygroup.com.au/blog/the-risks-and-consequences-of-failing-to-meet-rto-standards/
https://vetresources.com.au/about/​
https://vetresources.com.au/blog/how-to-find-the-best-training-resources-for-bsbwhs211-contribute-to-the-health-and-safety-of-self-and-others/​
https://vetresources.com.au/blog/bsbcmm411-make-presentations-what-is-it-about-and-why-is-it-important/

https://vetresources.com.au/product/learning-and-assessment-kit-chc33021-certificate-iii-in-individual-support/​

Why AoT Matters

Calculating and delivering the correct Amount of Training ensures that learners receive adequate instruction to achieve competency, meeting both their needs and those of the industry. Proper AoT planning also enhances compliance, as ASQA closely examines this component during audits.

By considering learner needs, qualification requirements, and delivery methods, RTOs can create effective and compliant training programs that empower students to succeed in their chosen fields.

In Summary: Calculating the Amount of Training is a vital step in VET course delivery. By following best practices, tailoring AoT to learner needs, and aligning with the TAS, RTOs can provide high-quality, industry-relevant education while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.