Inspiring the next generation
Education specialists meet for EduTECH Asia in Singapore
EduTECH Asia, which took place from 8 to 10 November 2017 in Singapore, is Asia’s largest education conference and technology exhibition. The BIBB, represented by Head of Department Birgit Thomann, used the opportunity to draw international attention to the importance of in-company training personnel.
With about 2,500 attendees, 300 speakers and 60 exhibitors the event brought together educators, policymakers and education service providers from Asia and across the world. According to the motto of the conference, “inspiring the next generation”, participants discussed the impact of changes in technology on the way we live, work and learn and its effect on teaching.
In the field of vocational education and training, meeting vocational training demand was the main topic discussed at EduTECH. Meeting the needs of the market today and in the future is a mission critical for vocational training institutions. At previous conferences, participants have shown great interest in topics like building industry partnerships, attracting the talents and imparting relevant skills for the future workplace.
Birgit Thomann, Head of Department “Internationalisation of VET/Knowledge Management” at the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB), was invited to share experiences from the German system. Focusing on the role of in-company trainers as “quality keepers” and “agents of change”, Thomann touched upon the importance of qualified in-company trainers, the importance of the ordinance on trainer aptitude (AEVO) and challenges that come with the job. Thomann argues, “the job of an in-company trainer is sophisticated and challenging. Further professionalization and social recognition are needed in order to strengthen the role of in-company trainers as learning facilitators at the workplace.”