TAFE NSW teachers are continuing to skill the workforce of the future by delivering courses to students using connected delivery methods during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Member for the Dubbo Electorate Dugald Saunders.
Mr Saunders recently visited Dubbo’s Myall Street and Narromine Road campuses to see first-hand how teachers are using innovative ways to connect with students during COVID-19.
He said teachers across a whole range of courses – from business and hospitality to light and heavy vehicles – were “doing some amazing things with virtual learning”.
“TAFE is doing what it always does and that is delivering real skills-based training and learning in a different way,” Mr Saunders said.
“Whether it’s doing electrical work, circuitry on computer or learning about crankshafts via Microsoft Teams, that delivery is continuing to happen and it’s going really well.”
Meanwhile over in the hospitality department, teachers have been filming cooking, cocktail making and napkin folding demonstrations for the students – many of whom have lost their jobs – to follow at home.
Connected delivery is not new to TAFE NSW students and teachers across the region, and many students located in remote areas have been accessing this method of study for some time.
Coonamble resident Sarah O’Neil is studying a Diploma of Nursing, after completing a Certificate III in Individual Support using connected delivery from TAFE NSW Dubbo.
“Regardless of the current situation, I love that I don’t have to travel to attend TAFE NSW every day; the flexibility is ideal with my young children and I’m learning everything that I need to complete my practical work placement in a hospital,” Ms O’Neil said.
“I’m looking forward to commencing the last block of my study at TAFE NSW Dubbo through connected delivery platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Skype, as this mode of delivery really appeals to me.”
“Sarah is the perfect example of how connected delivery can benefit students living in remote areas to launch their career and to be employed in industries that have a strong demand for people with practical skills and work experience,” Mr Saunders said.
He said TAFE teachers have long been pioneers in the online learning space, and he is confident that will continue.
“The lessons they’re learning as teachers have been invaluable during this time,” Mr Saunders said.
“Some of the things they’re doing now will actually continue into the future and that will mean even better delivery of service all around.”