The success of vocational education and training (VET) courses hinges on ensuring that students receive sufficient training to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for their chosen fields. For Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), calculating the Amount of Training (AoT) is a crucial step in designing compliant and effective training programs. This guide breaks down the key factors, steps, and considerations to help RTOs get it right.
What is the Amount of Training (AoT)?
The Amount of Training refers to the structured learning activities provided during a VET course, such as face-to-face sessions, online modules, and workplace training. AoT is a component of the broader Volume of Learning, which includes all learning activities—structured and unstructured—that contribute to achieving competency.
While the Volume of Learning provides a benchmark for the total learning hours for a qualification (e.g., 1,200–2,400 hours for a Diploma), the AoT focuses specifically on the structured training component delivered by the RTO.
Factors Influencing AoT
- Student Characteristics
The AoT must reflect the unique needs of the learners. Factors to consider include:- Prior skills and experience.
- Whether learners are new to the industry or have prior qualifications.
- The level of support required to meet competency.
- Qualification Requirements
Each course or unit of competency has specific requirements outlined in its training package. The AoT must align with these standards to ensure learners acquire the necessary skills. - Delivery Mode
The method of delivery impacts the AoT. For example:- Face-to-Face Training: Requires more structured hours compared to online learning.
- Online Learning: May require additional support mechanisms.
- Workplace Training: Combines structured learning with real-world application, requiring careful integration.
- Training and Assessment Strategy (TAS)
The TAS is a critical document that defines how the training will be delivered and assessed. It must clearly outline the AoT for each unit or course.
Steps to Calculate the Amount of Training
- Understand Volume of Learning Benchmarks
Use the AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) Volume of Learning guidelines for the qualification level as a baseline. - Tailor AoT for the Learner Cohort
Adjust the AoT based on the characteristics of the learners. For experienced students, AoT may be reduced, while new learners may require training closer to the full Volume of Learning. - Break Down the Training Plan
Divide the AoT into structured components, such as:- Classroom or online theoretical training.
- Practical skill development activities.
- Assessment preparation and completion.
- Account for Assessment Activities
Include the time required for students to complete assessments within the AoT. - Document in the TAS
Clearly outline the AoT in your TAS, ensuring it is transparent and easily understood by trainers, assessors, and auditors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inadequate AoT for Novice Learners
Failing to provide sufficient training hours can lead to compliance issues and poor learning outcomes. - Overuse of RPL and Credit Transfer
While these can reduce AoT, they must be supported with evidence to justify the reduction. - Inconsistent Documentation
Discrepancies between marketing materials, enrolment forms, and the TAS regarding AoT can create audit risks.
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Why Is AoT Critical?
Accurate calculation of AoT ensures that learners receive adequate training to achieve competency while keeping RTOs compliant with regulatory requirements. Proper AoT planning enhances learner outcomes, improves completion rates, and strengthens the RTO’s reputation as a provider of high-quality education.
By aligning AoT with learner needs, qualification standards, and delivery methods, RTOs can deliver effective and compliant training programs that equip students for success in the workplace.
