Standard 1.1 & 1.2: Training that reflects current industry practice

Training must be “engaging, well-structured and enable VET students to attain skills and knowledge consistent with the training product”, with “training delivery informed and continuously improved by direct and ongoing industry engagement.” Practice Guide – Training, p.1–2

A custom SIM business replicates an operating business environment, complete with branding, templates, and workflows, giving students access to realistic, contextualised training tasks. It also enables RTOs to show how industry input shaped delivery models and resources.

Standard 1.3 & 1.4: Valid, contextualised assessment

Assessment must “balance theory with practical assessment to ensure students undertake all required tasks and demonstrate their competence in different settings.” Practice Guide – Assessment, p.1

Simulated businesses are ideal for delivering practical assessment in safe, structured environments. Trainers can assess learners completing real-world tasks such as:
– Financial reports
– Marketing strategies
– Customer service communications
– Project plans

This aligns with the principles of assessment and rules of evidence, particularly validity, sufficiency, and authenticity, making it easier for students to progress without having to resort to academic cheating, as students can get extra tutoring from real-world businesses in exchange for doing productive work.

We’ve also found, through supervision of intern programs, that the businesses are often willing to pay them to do their coursework if it develops solutions for real-world problems (AKA, give them a job).

Standard 1.8: Fit-for-purpose resources and equipment

RTOs must demonstrate that “resources and equipment are contemporary and relevant to current industry practice, including any emerging technologies.” Practice Guide – Facilities, Resources and Equipment, p.2

A CLR-built SIM business reflects current industry tech, branding, processes, and customer service expectations, unlike outdated printed resources or generic websites.

Standard 2.3: Training support tailored to student needs

Training support must include “resources, including readings, exercises and practice tests” and “tutorials, including online tutorial support.” Practice Guide – Training Support, p.1

With a custom SIM business, support becomes embedded in the learning journey. Students can access templated documents, explore business operations at their own pace, and revisit content to reinforce learning.

These metaphors beautifully illustrate the difference between:

• Andragogical learning (adult-focused), which is the ship’s bow approach
• Pedagogical learning (child-focused), which is the bow-and-arrow approach

Understanding these metaphors is crucial for trainers working on contextualisation in VET.