1. The European Qualifications Framework (EQF)
Loukas Zahilas, Project Manager

2. In the beginning… the LISBON agenda
Background
In the beginning… the LISBON agenda

3. LISBON agenda Knowledge for: competitiveness more and better jobs
social inclusion
Success for Lisbon depends on success in vocational education and training

4. LISBON agenda Success in VET requires: knowing skills needs
establishing systems to deliver those skills
providing access for people
This requires VET-effective policies.

5. Actual pathway for 2010 objectives
Lisbon Strategy
Bologna Process
National Processes
Copenhagen Process
Bergen Declaration
New National Qualifications Frameworks
Maastricht Communique
European Higher Education Framework
N. Q. F.
E. Q. F.
E.V.C.E.T.

6. Functions of the EQF Translation device for comparing qualifications
Neutral reference point based on learning outcomes

7. The European Qualifications Framework
Bologna and Copenhagen
Consultation
Focus on Qualifications
Reflects an explicit need
Expert group

8. Our Lifelong Learning Experience: Obstacles!
within and between countries
between education and training systems
to use of acquired skills
to new learning

9. 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

10. What EQF is NOT! EQF not about replacing national/sectoral frameworks
EQF not about harmonisation
EQF CANNOT define new qualifications

11. The main elements of the EQF

12. Country A Country B EQF Level 8 EQF Level 7 NQF/ NQS EQF Level 6

13. Swedish post-secondary engineering education (Påbygnadsutbildning) = EQF Level 4 = Irish post secondary education at national level 6 (Advanced certificate) E Q F

14. Each EQF Reference Level Wider personal and professional competences
The Eight EQF Levels
Knowledge
Each EQF Reference Level
Skills
Wider personal and professional competences

15. Focus on Learning Outcomes
EQF
Learning Outcomes
Non-Formal Learning
Informal Learning
Formal Learning

16. 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

17. 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?

18. Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of national authorities
Clear link between national qualifications and the EQF levels
Self-certification
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Transparency of procedures
Publishing of results

19. 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
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Follow up of Maastricht Communique

20. 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
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Ongoing work in the ICT sector exemplifies this approach

21. Consultation
Europe-wide consultation process from July to December 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…??
Industry & sector organisations
Education and training NGO’s

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

23. State of the art
The Commission adopted on 5 September 2006 a proposal for a Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of EQF
The draft recommendation foresees that Member States relate their national qualifications systems to the EQF by 2009
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??

24. 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
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Commitment from national and sectoral bodies