Training refers to the process of skill development for a particular purpose (that is, learning how to do something). Training can also be used to increase awareness and understanding.
Training can be undertaken on the job, off the job (a course of study) or a combination of both. Training courses can vary in the way they are delivered, depending on the needs of the learner. For instance they can be:
- assessable (work needs to be completed to pass or attendance only)
- flexible or self paced (for example, via the Internet) or structured
- part time or full time
- short (for example, a few hours) or of a longer duration (for example, over a year).
There are also many different types of training courses currently available including:
- accredited certificate and diploma vocational courses
- apprenticeship and traineeship training
- disability awareness training courses
- industry specific short courses
- literacy and numeracy (reading and writing) courses
- refresher courses (example, first aid)
- staff induction courses (example, safety training)
Services provided
The aim of disability related training for co-workers is usually to increase general awareness and understanding of a specific disability or impairment, as well as to develop skills to enhance integration and communication in the workplace. Relevant training courses also aim to challenge common attitudes towards people with disability and discuss relevant legislation (for example, disability discrimination, equal opportunity and occupational health and safety) (Sense-Ability 2006).
Deaf awareness and sign language training for co-workers may assist and provide support to an employee who is Deaf or has experienced hearing loss. There is financial support available for eligible employers to help with the cost of Auslan (Australian Sign Language) training and deaf awareness training for the co-workers of an employee who is Deaf:
References and resources
Carey, P 2006, The Changing Work Context and Demands on Workers In the 21st Century and its Impact on the Role and Work of Career Practitioners, The Australian Association of Career Counsellors, Adelaide, viewed 27 May 2007, <http://www.aacc.org.au/documents/article_CareerManagement.doc>.
Sense-Ability 2006, Disability Equality Training, Sense-Ability, UK, viewed 28 May 2007, http://www.sense-ability.co.uk/disability.htm.