1. Towards a European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning
Consultation
Fine
Jens Bjornavold, European Commission,
Directorate-General for Education and Culture

2. Functions of the EQF
Neutral reference point based on learning outcomes
Translation device for comparing qualifications
Facilitates credit transfer and quality assurance
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Basis for sector qualification developments

3. The European Qualifications Framework
Builds on Bologna and Copenhagen processes
Consultation on the basic form, not a final recommendation
Covers all qualifications in lifelong learning
Meets a clearly expressed demand
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Builds on B and C
Meets a clearly expressed demand
Builds on work of a representative expert group

4. Lifelong Learning is important
Social reasons
Inclusive communities
Active citizens
Equal opportunities
Economic reasons
Lisbon
Jobs & growth
Innovation

5. The European Lifelong Learning Experience: Obstacles!
within and between countries
between education and training systems
to use of acquired skills
to new learning
Colour needs attention, nice image .any more images like this?

6. Strong political mandate
Member States & social partners support the development of a EQF
European Council have asked for adoption by the end of 2006
Graphic should be people……

7. The alternative to EQF: bilateral agreements?
Circles are individuals, instutiions, sectors, countries, companies seeking links to other bodies
Title
No common reference point – bilateral agreements develop

8. Country A
EQF
Country B 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 3 5 5 4 6 6
Qualifications
(A) 7 7 5 8 8 9 6
Qualifications
(B)

9. Country A
EQF
Country B 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 3 5 5 4 6 6
Qualifications
(A) 7 7 5 8 8 9 6
Qualifications
(B)

10. Example for using the EQF
Qualified Swedish engineering worker wants to move to Ireland
Irish authorities agree that EQF level 4 matches best Irish framework of qualifications at level 6 (‘Advanced certificate’)
Swedish engineering qualification at post- secondary level (Påbygnads- utbildning)
Swedish authorities have agreed that this matches EQF-level 4
A picture/photo would be nice…

11. 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
Fine

12. What EQF is NOT! EQF no replacement for national/sectoral frameworks
EQF NOT about harmonisation
EQF CANNOT define new qualifications
Fine

13. The Main elements of the EQF

14. 8 Common Reference Levels
The Core of the EQF
8 Common Reference Levels

15. Learning outcomes Learning Outputs Inputs
Traditional reference
systems based on INPUTS
EQF emphasis is on LEARNING OUTCOMES
 neutral
reference point
Image from next slide to be used in combination with this text…..

16. Focus on Learning Outcomes
EQF
Learning Outcomes
Non-Formal Learning
Informal Learning
Fine…well done
Formal Learning

17. Each EQF Reference Level
The Eight EQF Levels
Knowledge
Each EQF Reference Level
Skills
Wider personal and professional competences
autonomy and responsibility
learning competences
social and communication competences
professional and vocational competences
Image would be nice….

18. 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

19. Common Guiding Principles

20. EQF: Common Principles
Future agreement on key competences
Common Principles
Validation of non-formal and informal learning
Quality assurance
Image….
Guidance and counselling

21. EQF and individual citizens:
The link to:
qualifications and
the role of supporting instruments

22. Credit transfer and accumulation system
Goal: to create an integrated credit transfer system at European level, meeting the needs of vocational and academic institutions
Good image…can you find more like these for the other slides…?
Note: A separate Commission consultation is taking place on credit transfer

23. 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?

24. Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of sectoral stakeholders
Invite sectors to link sectoral qualifications to EQF
Facilitate sectoral developments
Facilitate link between national and sectoral qualifications
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Decentralisation and self-certification

25. 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
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Education and training NGO’s
Industry & sector organisations

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

27. 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 (e.g. credit transfer and accumulation)
Fine..perhaps a way to give it nicer look…??
Commitment from national and sectoral bodies