Future human capability building in the sheep and wool industry

Abstract

This paper gives an overview of the education environment in Australia and in particular, sheep and wool science education. It includes the results of a survey of the industry’s future needs for graduates and outlines the developments in e-learning. The Sheep Industry CRC education program is aimed at building future human capability in the sheep industry by training postgraduates, delivery of a national program of sheep and wool degree units available for students at most universities to study by distance education, and developing VET and school resources. A new Bachelor of Livestock Science degree was developed at the University of New England to enable students to specialise in animal breeding, health and nutrition and sheep and wool science. TAFE and school outcomes include the development of learning materials, training programs, teacher professional development as well as resources to promote careers in the sheep industry. The integration of the use of material across sectors is also discussed.