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The EQF – European Qualifications Framework Aims, consultation results and next steps

The EQF – European Qualifications Framework Aims, consultation results and next steps. Martina N í Cheallaigh European Commission Directorate General for Education and Culture. Functions of the EQF. Translation device for comparing qualifications.

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The EQF – European Qualifications Framework Aims, consultation results and next steps

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  1. The EQF – European Qualifications Framework Aims, consultation results and next steps Martina Ní Cheallaigh European Commission Directorate General for Education and Culture

  2. Functions of the EQF Translation devicefor comparing qualifications Neutral reference pointbased on learning outcomes

  3. The EQF Taking forward results of existing work • Cooperation in higher education (Bologna) EQF builds on and integrates results of Bologna and Copenhagen • Cooperation in vocational education and training (Copenhagen)

  4. Our Lifelong Learning Experience: Obstacles! • within and between countries • between education and training systems • to use competences acquired in non formal and informal settings

  5. EQF Level 8 Q NQF/NQS EQF Level 7 NQF/ NQS Q EQF Level 6 Q NQF/NQS EQF Level 5 NQF/ NQS Q NQF/NQS EQF Level 4 Q EQF Level 3 Q NQF/NQS Q NQF/ NQS EQF Level 2 EQF Level 1 Country A Country B

  6. A basis for co-operation • EQF implementation is voluntary • Entails no legal obligationson Member States or sectors • Fosters changeby supporting and informing reform

  7. What EQF is NOT! • EQFnot about replacingnational/sectoral frameworks • EQFnot about harmonisation • EQFCANNOT define new qualifications

  8. A shift in focus towards Learning Outcomes LearningOutcomes Necessary for translating between systems May boost validation of non-formal learning Reflects ongoing reforms at national level

  9. Recognition of Non-formal and Informal Learning Make visible (identify) + Value (assess and recognise) …competences acquired outside formal education and training Curricula and qualifications standards based on learning outcomes will facilitate validation

  10. 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 • National Framework of Qualifications?

  11. Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of sectoral stakeholders • Sectors have expressed the need for a common reference point • Focus on an outcomes and competence based approach • Follow up of Maastricht Communique

  12. EXAMPLE: Competence developments at sector level UK Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) • Competence based • 700.000 holders • Link to the EQF could point towards a Euro- CSCS?

  13. Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of sectoral stakeholders • Invite sectors to link sectoral qualifications to EQF • Facilitate sector internal competence developments • Facilitate link between national and sectoral qualifications • Decentralisation, self-certification and transparency

  14. 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 • Industry & sector organisations • Education and training NGO’s

  15. Consultation results • Broad agreement that EQF is necessary and relevant • EQF implementation must be voluntary; must not entail legal obligationson Member States or sectors • broad acceptance of 8-level structure • EQF needs to be based on quality assurance principles and mutual trust

  16. Need for further development Clarification of concepts An operational EQF Piloting and testing • Link to Bologna • Descriptors • National level • Sectors

  17. Conclusion • ‘Go ahead’ for development of operational EQF • Need for simplification, clarification and refinement

  18. Next steps • Commission support to countries and sectors to test and develop EQF • Call for proposals DG EAC 22/06 - Award of grants for actions to develop and test the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), including national and sectoral qualifications frameworks • Deadline: 18 August 2006 • Working group presented simplified and refined reference levels to representatives from Member States in June • Drafting Recommendation ofCouncil and EP

  19. The Main elements of the EQF

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