Towards a European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning Consultation Fine Jens Bjornavold, European Commission, Directorate-General for Education and Culture

Functions of the EQF Neutral reference point based on learning outcomes Translation device for comparing qualifications Facilitates credit transfer and quality assurance Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…?? Basis for sector qualification developments

The European Qualifications Framework Builds on Bologna and Copenhagen processes Consultation on the basic form, not a final recommendation Covers all qualifications in lifelong learning Meets a clearly expressed demand Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…?? Builds on B and C Meets a clearly expressed demand Builds on work of a representative expert group

Lifelong Learning is important Social reasons Inclusive communities Active citizens Equal opportunities Economic reasons Lisbon Jobs & growth Innovation

The European Lifelong Learning Experience: Obstacles! within and between countries between education and training systems to use of acquired skills to new learning Colour needs attention, nice image .any more images like this?

Strong political mandate Member States & social partners support the development of a EQF European Council have asked for adoption by the end of 2006 Graphic should be people……

The alternative to EQF: bilateral agreements? Circles are individuals, instutiions, sectors, countries, companies seeking links to other bodies Title No common reference point – bilateral agreements develop

Country A EQF Country B 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 3 5 5 4 6 6 Qualifications (A) 7 7 5 8 8 9 6 Qualifications (B)

Country A EQF Country B 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 3 5 5 4 6 6 Qualifications (A) 7 7 5 8 8 9 6 Qualifications (B)

Example for using the EQF Qualified Swedish engineering worker wants to move to Ireland Irish authorities agree that EQF level 4 matches best Irish framework of qualifications at level 6 (‘Advanced certificate’) Swedish engineering qualification at post- secondary level (Påbygnads- utbildning) Swedish authorities have agreed that this matches EQF-level 4 A picture/photo would be nice…

A basis for co-operation EQF implementation is voluntary Entails no legal obligations on Member States or sectors Fosters change by supporting and informing reform Fine

What EQF is NOT! EQF no replacement for national/sectoral frameworks EQF NOT about harmonisation EQF CANNOT define new qualifications Fine

The Main elements of the EQF

8 Common Reference Levels The Core of the EQF 8 Common Reference Levels

Learning outcomes Learning Outputs Inputs Traditional reference systems based on INPUTS EQF emphasis is on LEARNING OUTCOMES  neutral reference point Image from next slide to be used in combination with this text…..

Focus on Learning Outcomes EQF Learning Outcomes Non-Formal Learning Informal Learning Fine…well done Formal Learning

Each EQF Reference Level The Eight EQF Levels Knowledge Each EQF Reference Level Skills Wider personal and professional competences autonomy and responsibility learning competences social and communication competences professional and vocational competences Image would be nice….

Using the EQF ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Table 1: Learning Outcomes Aimed at qualifications authorities, experts: makes translations between systems and frameworks possible SUPPORTING INFORMATION Table 2: Supporting Information Needs to be compiled and completed at national or sectoral level

Common Guiding Principles

EQF: Common Principles Future agreement on key competences Common Principles Validation of non-formal and informal learning Quality assurance Image…. Guidance and counselling

EQF and individual citizens: The link to: qualifications and the role of supporting instruments

Credit transfer and accumulation system Goal: to create an integrated credit transfer system at European level, meeting the needs of vocational and academic institutions Good image…can you find more like these for the other slides…? Note: A separate Commission consultation is taking place on credit transfer

Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of national authorities Commitments to link national qualifications to EQF Long term reform process Learning outcome-based qualifications Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…?? National Framework of Qualifications?

Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of sectoral stakeholders Invite sectors to link sectoral qualifications to EQF Facilitate sectoral developments Facilitate link between national and sectoral qualifications Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…?? Decentralisation and self-certification

Consultation Europe-wide consultation process from July to November 2005: 32 countries in ‘Education and Training 2010’ Bologna follow-up group European Social Partner organisations Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…?? Education and training NGO’s Industry & sector organisations

Consultation — Results Input to drafting of Council and EP Recommendation in Spring 2006 Integrated Lifelong Learning Programme — support? Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??

Summary 8 common reference levels (learning outcomes) Common principles support EQF levels and provide guidelines for cooperation A range of tools and instruments for individuals (e.g. credit transfer and accumulation) Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…?? Commitment from national and sectoral bodies