A discussion paper has been released by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment calling for public consultation on the Review of the ESOS framework.
The Review is a key government initiative of the Australian Strategy for International Education 2021-2030.
The Department is seeking input across broad areas of:
1. Expansion and Diversification
2. Meeting skills needs and graduate workplace readiness
3. Supporting the quality of third-party relationships
4. Course transfers
5. Written agreements
6. English language
Future of ELICOS and the ESOS review
Section one of the ESOS Review Discussion Paper (Expansion and Diversification Q1-Q4) is closely aligned with the strategic activity that we’ve been completing and recent release of the Future of ELICOS Interim Report and Survey. Your input to these questions and our survey will provide English Australia with valuable insights to advocate on your behalf. These are:
- What are the barriers in the current ESOS framework to the sector’s expansion and diversification into online and offshore delivery?
- What lessons have we learnt through flexible delivery, online modes of study and other changes in response to the pandemic that could be incorporated into the ESOS framework?
- What percentage of a course should the ESOS framework allow to be studied online? How could the ESOS framework support delivery models such as mixed-mode study where students may move from ESOS non-regulated to a ESOS regulated environment (for example, a student studying part of their degree offshore, and part onshore)?
- What safeguards could be used to increase visibility and assure the quality of courses delivered online and offshore in the future?
As a reminder, this survey closed on 1 March 2022. The outcomes will be discussed at the March Branch meetings ahead of the forum with DESE, ASQA and TEQSA at the end of March.
English language as part of the ESOS review
English Australia is also seeking input from our members across each of these areas, particularly the section relating to English language (Q24-Q27). These are:
- How can the ESOS framework better support students’ English language skills to match their course requirements on the start of enrolment and ensure an optimal student experience for all students?
- Would it be beneficial to introduce an independent assessment of international students’ English proficiency before they commence their first AQF course?
- How can PRISMS data entry requirements be adjusted to make it easier for providers to record evidence of a student’s English proficiency?
- What additional guidance do providers need to ensure incoming students meet English language requirements?
- How can providers of ELICOS and Foundation Programs ensure that students have reached the required level of English language proficiency to start their first AQF course?
Please provide your responses to the Submission Form to us by COB Friday 8 April 2022.
We are also working with the Department to arrange a stakeholder consultation for our members.
Please click here to access the discussion paper.