The European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Loukas Zahilas, Project Manager Loukas.Zahilas@cedefop.europa.eu

In the beginning… the LISBON agenda Background In the beginning… the LISBON agenda

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

The main elements of the EQF

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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…??

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…??

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