ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the development of technician education and training in New Zealand and discusses the work of the Authority for Advanced Vocational Awards (AAVA), the national body responsible for course and assessment requirements for technician qualifications. The AAVA responsibilities for prescriptions, examinations and for validation are described with reference to the New Zealand system of 22 technical institutes and community colleges.
Future trends for technician education and training are discussed in the context of national policy for the development of science and technology. Attention is drawn to the urgent need to plan for a more extensive and better quality technician workforce. Co-ordination of the interests of government departments, employers and the technical institute system is necessary if constructive action is to replace previous suspicions and even hostility. Current and future developments are outlined which could transform the structure of vocational education in New Zealand and change the nature of technician training. Consideration is given to experience in other countries to draw attention to some possible strategies and directions for the future.
