Towards a European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning

1. Towards a European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning Vienna, 21 October 2005 Michael Teutsch European Commission

2. Functions of the EQF Translation devicefor comparing qualifications Neutral reference pointbased on learning outcomes

3. The European Qualifications Framework • Bologna and Copenhagen Consultation—Not a final recommendation • Focus on Qualifications • Reflects an explicit need • Expert group

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

5. A basis for co-operation • EQF implementation is voluntary • Entails no legal obligationson Member States or sectors • Fosters changeby supporting and informing reform

6. What EQF is NOT! • EQFnot about replacingnational/sectoral frameworks • EQFnot about harmonisation • EQFCANNOT define new qualifications

7. The Main elements of the EQF

8. EQF Level 8 Q NQF/NQS EQF Level 7 NQF/ NQS Q EQF Level 6 Q NQF/NQS EQF Level 5 NQF/ NQS Q NQF/NQS EQF Level 4 Q EQF Level 3 Q NQF/NQS Q NQF/ NQS EQF Level 2 EQF Level 1 Country A Country B

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

10. The Eight EQF Levels Knowledge EachEQFReference Level Skills Wider personal and professional competences

11. Focus on Learning Outcomes EQF LearningOutcomes Non-Formal Learning Informal Learning Formal Learning

12. 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 InformationNeeds to be compiled and completed at national or sectoral level

13. 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? • National Framework of Qualifications?

14. Linking qualifications to the EQF: the role of national authorities • Clear link between national qualifications and the EQF levels • Self-certification • Transparency of procedures • Publishing of results

15. 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 • Follow up of Maastricht Communique

16. 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 • Ongoing work in the ICT sector exemplifies this approach

17. 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 • Industry & sector organisations • Education and training NGO’s

18. Next steps: Preparation of Commission proposal • Consultation process – until December 2005 • Analysis and discussion of results at Budapest conference end February 2006 • Informal Ministerial Meeting March 2006 • Commission draft Recommendation mid-2006

19. Next steps: support to stakeholders • Testing and experimentation in countries and sectors • EU funding for testing • Establishment of network on national and sectoral frameworks • International workshop on national and sectoral frameworks

20. 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 • Commitment from national and sectoral bodies