Doing the research is only half the job: the impact of vet research on decision-making

Hong Kong Conventional & Exhibition Centre

In this paper the proposition that vocational education research ought to have a greater impact on theory and practice is explored. The development of a new approach in Australia is outlined. This approach is based on three key elements. First, was a deliberate strategy over the past decade to increase the amount of research being undertaken. Second were steps taken to improve the relevance of that research to policy development and decision making processes. Third is a variety of ways now being instigated to ensure the utilisation of that research by various stakeholders in the vocational education and training sector. The key message is that doing research is only half the job.