The draft degree unit standards for social work and youth work have been developed by unit standard working groups consisting of representatives from peak industry bodies, tertiary education organisations (TEOs) and community organisations. The unit standards will shortly be put before a reference group for feedback.

“The process has been a truly collaborative endeavour,” says project leader, Dr Amanda Torr. “The end result will be a workable and effective model that will deliver meaningful degree qualifications that prepare people for professional work and post graduate study.”

The unit standards have been grouped in a way that builds knowledge, professional skills, and analytical and problem solving skills as well as helping trainees develop their independent learning abilities.

Dr Torr says the degrees and unit standards have been developed so that TEOs can deliver them in programmes that reflect their own unique philosophies and teaching methods. She says moderation will reflect institutional expertise and TEOs will be recognised as peers in the degree delivery process.

As for all degree programmes, the national degrees will be delivered by people actively engaged in research. At the same time there will be a robust process of workplace assessment that ensures trainees can transfer their learning to real workplace settings. This dual requirement means the collaborative relationship between the ITO and TEOs will continue beyond the degree development. Work is currently underway to consider future funding of the degree programmes recognising the dual importance of theoretical and workplace based learning.

“These are exciting times for the ITO. I am confident that the draft unit standards are what the industry wants,” says Dr Torr. Once the unit standards are signed off, work will begin on developing the national degrees themselves. It is hoped that the degrees will be ready for approval and registration by the end of 2009.

For more information or request to be part of the process please contact Dr Amanda Torr, Project Leader at amanda.torr@tkaito.co.nz