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Learner-centred Teaching in Technical and Vocational Education and Training: Perspectives and Reviews of Six Asia-Pacific Countries

A learner-centred approach to teaching in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET ) is based on learner engagement, autonomy and outcome-based activities to support professional development. This report analyses the status of learner-centred TVET teaching in six selected countries across Asia and the Pacific, including China, Republic of Korea, Samoa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Uzbekistan. The countries were selected because of their geographic diversity, access to national experts, and potential around learner-centred TVET.The first part of the study is a review of the theoretical background on the learner-centred approach and TVET teaching with an international scope. A total of 25 indicators were used to assess three components of TVET teaching in the region. The analysis includes 17 examples corresponding to the selected indicators. The findings showcase lessons learned and recommendations for countries to self-assess their TVET teaching strategies. These examples will help to inform future projects and capacity building in each sub-region of Asia-Pacific.As a result, seven proposals are identified and discussed to promote the development of learner-centred TVET teaching in the region. These proposals include: 1) supporting national reform of the pedagogy based on the results of pilot projects; 2) increasing two-way communication between students and teachers; 3) producing learning materials adapted to learner-centred methods; 4) using technology in the learning process; 5) implementing competency-based learning to support the learner-centred pedagogy; 6) integrating transversal and core skills; and 7) developing teachers’ capacities by employing a learner-centred approach. These proposals (on reform, teaching method, use of materials, etc.) also address gender dimensions throughout the planning, implementation and review process. Conclusions from the study provide lessons learned as well as proposals for further research and implementation of learner-centred TVET teaching in Asia-Pacific.