ABSTRACT
As in the UK, Australian higher education is developing stronger links with industry and more active involvement in continuing professional development, In this chapter Geoffrey Beeson describes the development of a flexible, work-based first degree in technology management. Positioned to assist technical employees in manufacturing to develop management abilities, it is designed to enable full-time workers to learn without major disruptions to work and personal commitments.
The programme makes use of varied learning materials coupled with tutor contact by telephone, fax and e-mail as well as workplace tutorials. A credit-based approach offers multiple entry and exit points as well as a facility to take prior learning into account. Initial evaluations from students and representatives of sponsoring companies are positive, with the ability of the programme to fit around work schedules and students' personal lives being particularly welcomed.
