Go8 Backgrounder 12 - Strengthening the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)

The revised AQF as proposed by the Australian Qualifications Framework Council (AQFC) in October 2010 is too narrow, parochial and prescriptive. The AQFC is proposing a unified model that exists nowhere else and runs contrary to best practice principles. Imposing from above a radical reform model flies in the face of all the available evidence regarding change management in respect of the development and implementation of National Qualifications Frameworks (NQFs).

These issues could be overcome by maintaining a focus on the learning outcomes at each level while allowing more flexibility for qualification types to span across two adjacent levels. Bachelors degrees should be able to be offered at both levels 7 and 8, Masters degrees at levels 8 and 9 and Doctorate degrees at levels 9 and 10. This approach will more accurately reflect current practices and allow for future developments. Information about the alignment of qualifications types and titles with AQF levels can be documented in course and marketing materials, graduation statements and transcripts.

Please click here to view - Go8 Backgrounder 12 - Strengthening the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)