Friday, 9 May 2008
The OET Forum: Focus on the Candidate
At the fourth annual OET Forum, held on May 9th at the Langham Hotel, Southbank, over 75 attendees listened to presentations and took part in discussions related to various aspects of the experience of an OET candidate.
The Forum was opened and attendees welcomed by Ms Beverley Honig, member of the CAE Board and Chair of the OET Development Committee. Ms Honig set the scene for the day with reference to the health workforce, migration trends and the work of the OET Centre, before listing the day’s speakers and their topics. Ms Ileana Guizzo of the Australian Dental Council then spoke about how the ADC uses the OET in its registration process.
The keynote speaker, Professor Tim McNamara of the School of Languages and Linguistics, University of Melbourne, addressed the topic The Social Dimensions of Assessment. He gave stunning examples of the social boundaries historically created by language testing from biblical times to the modern day and concluded by examining the characteristics of valid tests and the social issues they address. Download Professor McNamara's presentation.
Ms Fel Bisiani, Manager of the OET Centre, then interviewed two international medical graduates, one successfully established in his career here, the other a recent successful OET candidate seeking employment. They spoke of work conditions in their home countries and their expectations and experience in moving to Australia.
Dr Eleanor Flynn of the Medical Education Unit, University of Melbourne then gave her perspective on this issue and on the current situation for IMGs. Ms Elizabeth Carter, Senior Legal Officer of the Skilled Migration National Office of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship gave an update on General Skilled Migration (GSM) targets and changes, addressed onshore and offshore visa requirements, English language requirements and affirmed that the OET is viewed by DIAC as evidence of eligibility for GSM applications.
Ms Margaret Proctor, Director of the Professional and International Recognition Unit, Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations spoke about conditions governing eligibility for financial support for overseas trained health professionals. Download Ms Proctor's presentation.
The OET Assessment Manager, John Pill, discussed the overlaps between language skills, professional skills and communication skills and encouraged participants to consider what a language proficiency test should focus on. Download Mr Pill's presentation.
Ms Karen Cook, CEO of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council addressed the balancing act faced in the competing issues of Australia’s need for competent health professionals, the health workforce requirements of other countries and the rights of Australian consumers. Download Ms Cook's presentation.
The final session provided the opportunity for attendees to discuss nominated key issues raised by speakers during the day before giving small group feedback. The Forum concluded over networking drinks, giving attendees the opportunity to relax, mingle and discuss the day’s proceedings with others. It was clear from event feedback that participants found the day informative and stimulating.