Qualification Frameworks January 2017

Transcription

1 Qualification Frameworks January 2017 Lisa Collett Head of Global Division recognising international expertise

2 Objectives Understand the purpose of Qualification Frameworks Aware of the different types of Qualification Frameworks Understand the role of Transnational / Regional Frameworks The role of Qualification Frameworks in recognition

3 Qualification Frameworks A Qualifications Framework is an instrument for the development, classification and recognition of skills, knowledge and competencies along a continuum of agreed levels. It is a way of structuring existing and new qualifications, which are defined by learning outcomes. Tuck 2007

4 Purpose of a National Qualification Framework The NQF is a component of an overall system of education, which encompasses all activities that result in the recognition of learning. These activities include: Developing and implementing policy Regulatory and institutional arrangements Quality assurance processes Assessment and awarding processes An NQF does the following: Standardises education programmes Links academic, vocational, occupational Provides easy transition between levels Making education transparent, accessible and non-bureaucratic

5 Critical factors for a National Qualification Framework To be established on a formal basis Part of a wider strategy Implementation funding Successful implementation of a learning outcomes approach Support to education and training institutions Engagement and support from a wide range of stakeholders

6 Other Considerations for an NQF Identify the main goals and purpose Identify the scope of the framework Consider the national, and regional market requirements Identify the appropriate stakeholders Consider the current structure of the education qualifications Identify the gaps between the labour market and current education provision

7 The three generations of qualification frameworks

8 Status of NQFs General public lack of awareness Shift to learning outcomes is still contested vs pedagogy and learning conexts Zombie frameworks (Adam, 2013) Requirements to meet Regional Qualification Framework Ignores the traditional exit points of the existing system An imbalance between the education system and the employment market Lack of funding and capacity for implementation

9 What is a Regional / Transnational Framework Regional frameworks are an agreed overarching framework in a defined geographical area Transnational frameworks are those that represent countries of a particular type / reflect a shared history in terms of trade and relationships Both have multiple functions and can either directly or indirectly influence the development of NQFs

10 Regional Frameworks South African Development Community Regional Qualifications Framework (1997) Qualification Framework for the European Higher Education Area (1999) European Qualification Framework (2008) CARICOM Regional Qualification Framework (2012) Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Considering ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework (2014) Commonwealth- Virtual University of Small States of the Commonwealth (VUSSC) a Transnational Qualification Framework was developed (2008) Central and South American Exploring potential Gulf Co-operation Council Strong links with the EQF are proposed Pacific Qualifications Framework (2011) Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) Taskforce Mediterranean closer ties with Europe (Keevey, J and Chakroun, B Level-setting and recognition of learning outcomes; (2015) UNESCO)

11 European Qualifications Framework European Qualifications Framework (EQF) (March 2005) To bring together three distinct areas of policy: Copenhagen Process Lisbon Strategy Bologna Process To support mutual recognition of qualifications Strengthen mutual trust and co-operation between stakeholders Not enforceable, and will not replace national or sectoral frameworks

12 The EQF a MetaFramework

13 The EQF Referencing Process 10 criteria were agreed by the EQF Advisory Group Aim: Ensure referencing conducted in an explicit and defensible manner, essential to the overall validity of the EQF as a translation device 1. Responsibilities of all bodies clearly defined and published 2. Link between the levels in the national system and the EQF level descriptors must be clear 3. National system must be based on principle and objective of learning outcomes 4. Procedure for inclusion of qualifications in the national framework must be transparent 5. National QA system should link to the national qualifications system and align with European principles 6. Referencing process to include the stated agreement of relevant QA bodies 7. Referencing process to involve international experts 8. Competent national body/bodies to certify the referencing 9. Official EQF platform to maintain a public listing of member states that have completed the referencing process and reports 10. On completion, all new qualifications issued should contain a clear reference to the appropriate EQF level

14 UK NARIC Final Certificates

15 South African Development Community Qualifications Framework (SADC QF) South African Development Community Qualifications Framework (SADC QF) (June 2005) To enhance the quality and credibility of education and training. Agreed principles, practices, procedures and standardised terminology to ensure the following: Effective comparability of qualifications across borders Mutual recognition of qualifications Credit transfer Development of regional standards Reviewing and strengthening national assessment and accreditation systems Facilitating agreement on entrance requirements to higher education and training 2011 Implementation Plan and Concept paper for the Regional Qualifications Framework is published outlining a draft framework of 10 levels 2016 Review of the SADC RQF and progress

16 Referencing of National to National Frameworks

17 Mutual Trust

18 Thank you for your attention Copyright 2017 UK NARIC. All Rights Reserved. The copyright of this presentation (printed and electronic) belongs to the UK NARIC. Any use of the printed materials in full or in part must be under prior written consent by UK NARIC and with clear reference made to UK NARIC as the material source.