Guided Learning and Directed Learning

I think that there has to be 'something to hang your hat on' which is where Ofquals definition comes from. I would like to think that there is room for GLH as the starting point but the option to not deliver the through Face to Face (or equivalent means) providing the quality directed non-guided learning is there such as the relatively simple yet high quality instruction demonstrated by Khan Academy.

Hi Sarah- I'm not suggesting Ofqual should involve themselves in QA (that would be worrying!!), but I do believe they are in a position to set out more robust criteria on 'how much' T&L is delivered within a qualification but also how much external QA needs to be carried out, based on risk and some form of grading. With grading, I agree it would be difficult to grade learners, but I think with 'quality of T&L', it could be done. Like you said, the big drive at the moment is for employers to have a bigger say in what qualifications look like, and also the end product- therefore both the amount and quality of training need to have clear guidelines and also be quality assured

Hi Ben - it's for AOs to quality assure what occurs in the teaching and assessment of their qualifications, and for Ofqual to hold us to account for that, rather than engage in T & L QA themselves. Some would say, of old, that AOs should only be concerned with outcomes, ie checking the standards of learners' skill, knowledge and competence at assessment, irrespective of how they got there, with their journey the sole responsibility of the training provider with whom they chose to enrol. However if we are to safeguard the quality of our product, particularly so it is trusted by all stakeholders (particularly those looking to employ successful graduates) then we need to assure ourselves that all facets of qual delivery and assessment meet expectations. With so many delivery models available in the VQ market, provided by many types of provider, I think a graded approach à la Ofsted would be problematic - but the discussion would be interesting!

Would that not be the role of the regulatory bodies to quality assure the various methods of T&L as well as assessment? This could be done using Ofsted's 1-4 grading criteria, obviously the specific requirements for how you achieve a grade 1 etc. would vary for each method of 'learning'. If Ofqual made this mandatory for all AO's, then 'corner cutting' would reduce significantly and quality would improve.