/SEML2_wk2_Haug

A long-term strategic vision on qualifications frameworks and quality assurance mechanisms MENA countries seminar, Marseilles, 14 June 2010 Guy HAUG

QF for LLL: main features • A comprehensive framework of qualifications - for all types, sectors and levels of qualifications - qualifications, not diplomas/certificates - strong LLL orientation • An “overarching” link between systems, sub-systems, providers - as a common reference, not a “model” or a “pattern” - for transparency/mutual understanding, not for harmonisation - voluntary, not mandatory in any respect • Learning outcomes (LO) as a common focus - EQF not based on inputs, nor on learning environments/systems - but on LO defined as Knowledge, Skills, Competencies (KSC) - centred on learner, not process: formal, informal, non-formal learning - generic, not discipline/profession based (“vague”) descriptors - many different ways to plan, acquire and combine KSC

The EQF for LLL: main features • Qualifications “levels” and level descriptors - 8 levels of reference, lowest and highest levels are “extensible” - level descriptors as KSC - to be read horizontally and vertically - complexity of KSC grows with levels, yet not a “ladder” • Underpinned by QA mechanisms and seals - self-certification (self-referencing) - declarative process, not enough for trust - QA system, validation rules, transparency tools - under what conditions can QA really underpin trust

QFs and QA: the case of Europe • Regional, national, sectoral QFs - EQF-HE (2005, Bologna, intergovernmental, far beyond EU) 3 +1 levels of reference (generic descriptors,an ECTS range, DS) - EQF-LLL (EU Lisbon Strategy, 2008) 4 more levels for general and VET (initial, continuing) qualifications • Similarities/differences between EQF and EQF-EGEA - similar aims, LO, QA, trust-based, compatible at 4 levels of 8 - EHEA is more normative: ECTS credit ranges, harmonisation - one integrated EQF, or two different frameworks?

• part of a broader political, social and economic ambition single European (EU) labour market + Lisbon goals as major drivers • Close link with adoption of QA mechanisms, agencies, networks

QFs and QA: the case of Europe • EQF and the NQFs - bridging the national systems, not merging them - mobility, credit transfer, recognition, LLL - but above all, strong benefits for national education/training policy development: workforce development, diversification, flexibility/bridges, talent for Knowledge Society/Economy • EQF toolbox and best practices - quality assurance: ENQA, “European” Standards/Guidelines, (too) many national/regional agencies, European Register, some (too few) European quality seals - certification, including validation of prior learning - Diploma Supplement - credits (ECTS in higher education, ECVET?) - information (Ploteus), guidance/orientation

QFs and QA: Where to from now?

• The virtues of a regional QF as a common reference - for the coherent development of NQFs - for the development of discipline/profession-based QA (cf. the EQUIS case, EUR-ACE, Euro-Chemistry, etc.)

• Linking the NQF to the regional QF - NQF unit, inventory of qualifications, consultation process, value/benefit for users (learners/families, employers, …)

- transparency tools: QA, evaluation/validation mechanisms - linking each type/level of qualification to regional QF: criteria for self-certification, best-fit rule, demonstrating fit, referencing qualifications directly to EQF, without a NQF? - Trust issue: fairness vs. “inflation” of national qualifications 2 sides: requires trust, its success creates trust

QFs and QA: Where to from now?

• Basic requirements for NQFs - NQF not mandatory, but all NQF must be LO-based include validation tools - yet: LO need not to be described using KSC levels may differ from, but must relate to regional ones - all encompassing NQF for LLL… or just NQF for EHEA? • Starting with regional quality seals ?

- limitations of strongly nationally-based QA approaches ( Cf. EU Report on progress in QA, 2009) - need for QA standards/guidelines that are not only generic, but reflect the regional goals, features and values need for region-wide, discipline-specific quality seals - the dilemma about rankings

Everything is in YOUR hands

guy.haug@gmail.com