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FOSTERING INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION FOR INNOVATIVE COURSE DESIGN IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION: A PILOT CASE STUDY ON AGRICULTURAL COURSES BENEFITING INDIA AND AUSTRALIA
1 Central Queensland University (AUSTRALIA)
2 University of Adelaide (AUSTRALIA)
3 NSFI (INDIA)
4 Mahindra and Mahindra (INDIA)
About this paper:
Appears in: EDULEARN24 Proceedings
Publication year: 2024
Pages: 9412-9420
ISBN: 978-84-09-62938-1
ISSN: 2340-1117
doi: 10.21125/edulearn.2024.2275
Conference name: 16th International Conference on Education and New Learning Technologies
Dates: 1-3 July, 2024
Location: Palma, Spain
Abstract:
In today's globalized world, the exchange of knowledge and expertise between nations has become increasingly vital for addressing complex challenges and fostering sustainable development. This abstract explores the potential of international collaboration in shaping innovative vocational curriculum designs, with a focus on agricultural courses. Drawing upon a pilot case study involving five agricultural courses, this research elucidates the multifaceted dimensions of collaborative vocational education curriculum and course development.

The primary objective of this project was to establish a framework around process mapping of future required skills, curate vocational courses by leveraging the collective expertise and pedagogical insights of international partners and establish a strategic partnership with key stakeholders in both the Australian and India's Vocational Education sector. This presentation will provide an in-depth exploration of our methodology, emphasizing the processes of skills gap analysis, vocational standards, and curriculum development.

Key themes that emerged from the project includes but not limited to are:
Innovative curriculum- Drawing on from the occupational standards of both countries, new standards and curriculum was devised including micro-credential course in Agriculture which is novel concept in India and evolving pedagogy in Vocational Education of Australia.

Futuristic Industry-Relevant Skills:
The curriculum design emphasizes the integration of industry-relevant skills and competencies, aligning educational outcomes with the evolving demands of the agricultural workforce. Collaboration with industry partners ensures that course content remains current, practical, and responsive to market needs, enhancing graduates' employability skill.

Innovative Teaching and Learning Approaches:
International collaboration encourages the exploration of innovative teaching and learning approaches, including experiential learning and many more good practices of pedagogy. Exposing project partners to diverse cultural perspectives, practices, and challenges enriched their educational experience.

Policy and Institutional Support:
The success of novel curriculum design was supported by pragmatic policy and institutional support at both national and institutional levels. Clear guidelines and administrative structures facilitated the planning, implementation, ensuring the long-term impact on vocational education.

Based on the insights gleaned from the pilot study, this abstract offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders seeking to foster international collaboration in vocational education. These recommendations encompass, the cultivation of strategic partnerships, the provision of capacity-building initiatives, and the leveraging of pedagogic insights to facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange.

In conclusion, this abstract underscore the transformative potential of international collaboration in shaping innovative vocational course designs. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to excellence, both nations envisage to contribute to sustainable development goals of United Nation.
Keywords:
International Collaboration, Curriculum Design, Vocational Education, Agricultural Courses, Industry Partnership, Micro-credential, Vocational Standard Development.