Development of the VELS
Following on from the consultation process, the VCAA continued to work with researchers, teachers and schools in analysing responses to the proposed approach and developing detailed aspects of the Victorian Essential Learning Standards.
A range of statewide seminars were held during late 2004 for curriculum leaders to introduce the key elements of the VELS. This included the rationale, purpose, structure, key features and the online design format. Participants were provided with opportunities to reflect on and discuss implementation and planning strategies for their schools.
Publication timeline
The first stage of the Victorian Essential Learning Standards was released in December 2004. This included:
- the rationale and structure of the VELS
- descriptions of the three core essential learning strands
- introductions to the learning domains and dimensions within each strand
- descriptions of each of the stages of learning
- description of features of learning at each of the six levels
- assessment principles.
The second stage was launched by the Minister for Education and Training in March 2005. This included:
- learning focus statements for each domain at each level
- standards for each learning domain
- several sample units to assist schools in their planning and understanding of the standards.
Material from the first and second stages plus other work initiated through the Blueprint for Government Schools were published on the Student Learning April 2005 DVD that was distributed to schools and the education community in May 2005. Other Blueprint initiatives included on the DVD were the:
- Curriculum Planning Guidelines
- Principles of Learning and Teaching P-12
- Assessment and Reporting Advice
- Knowledge Bank.
The third stage was published on the VELS website in December 2005. This included:
- revisions to the learning focus statement and standards made following the validation process
- revised sample units of work
- sample assessment tasks
- assessment maps.
