Implications for learning and teaching in higher education delivered by private providers and TAFE and the role of university partners

Government ideology, funding and regulatory policies at the national and state levels, growth in technologies and a market-driven culture are having a significant impact on the tertiary education landscape in Australia. This is particularly evident in the blurring of the boundaries between universities and vocational education and training (VET) providers, including TAFE (technical and further education) institutes. It is also evident in the growth of private providers offering VET and/ or higher education (HE) programs. Partnerships and collaborations across the sector are emerging in response to changing cultural and government policies, priorities and incentives. An important question for those interested in the learning experience and learning outcomes at the tertiary education level is: 'what are the implications for learning and teaching of this changing landscape?' To shed light on this question this paper examines the findings from three external reviews of private providers offering higher education programs. It also draws on initial feedback from TAFE institutes offering higher education programs through a partnership arrangement with a university. The paper identifies areas of strength and areas where improvement is required in the private provider programs. With respect to university partnerships with private providers and TAFE institutes, the paper discusses some positive aspects of these collaborations and suggests ways by which these partnerships could be strengthened to have a more positive impact on the learning experience and outcomes for students.