Qualification Frameworks and Specifications The European Qualifications Framework Ken Currie CAPDM Godollo, September 2013

This Talk An introduction to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) An National example –The Scottish Qualifications Authority How they relate Implications for SME2 2

The EQF A non-binding recommendation of the European Parliament Council 2008 –Provides a common reference framework as a translation device between different qualifications systems and their levels –Complements ECTS, Europass, Erasmus national qualifications systems to relate to the EQF by 2010 A requirement of all Member States in 2012? 3

Key Recommendations a reference tool to compare the qualification levels of different systems all new qualifications refer to an appropriate EQF level use an approach based on learning outcomes when defining qualifications promote the validation of non-formal and informal learning, and hence LLL 4

It does not... describe specific qualifications –Specific qualifications are mapped to the appropriate EQF level through National qualifications systems or Authorities 5

An Example: the SQA The Scottish Qualifications Authority –The only accrediting body for Schools and Further Education in Scotland –does not accredit Higher Education Our universities are granted a charter by the Government 6

Qualifications Framework 12 Levels in Scotland; 8 in Europe –See 7

Qualifications Higher National Certificates/Diplomas –Designed to meet the needs of employers both locally and nationally –Large range of subjects Vocational Qualifications –Modern Apprenticeships, Scottish VQs 8

Higher National Award Made up of HN Unit credits, at level 7/8 (Level 5 EQF) –one credit = 40 hours timetabled learning HN Certificates =12 credits –usually takes one year to complete HN Diplomas = 30 credits –usually takes two years to complete 9

Arrangement Documents HNC/Ds specified by an Arrangement Document – a validation document –information about the Award its aims guidance on access details of the Award structure guidance on delivery 10

HN Courses Courses have a formal specification –Purpose –Credit points and level –Core skills –Context for delivery –Assessment of Outcomes –Outcomes themselves 11

Summary Formal structures & Specifications –Quite demanding, as SME2 found out All courses accredited through the SQA, at a point on the SCQF automatically ‘levelled’ in the EQF 12