This is one of a series of four thematic reports prepared within the framework of the 2016 update to the European inventory on validation of non-formal and informal learning. The inventory, together with the European guidelines for validating non-formal and informal learning, is a major tool supporting the implementation of the 2012 recommendation on validation that calls on Member States to establish, by 2018, validation arrangements allowing individuals to identify, document, assess and certify their competences to obtain a qualification (or parts of it). This thematic report provides... [+] Show more
This is one of a series of four thematic reports prepared within the framework of the 2016 update to the European inventory on validation of non-formal and informal learning. The inventory, together with the European guidelines for validating non-formal and informal learning, is a major tool supporting the implementation of the 2012 recommendation on validation that calls on Member States to establish, by 2018, validation arrangements allowing individuals to identify, document, assess and certify their competences to obtain a qualification (or parts of it).
This thematic report provides an overview of validation monitoring of non-formal and informal learning across Europe. Based on data collected for the European inventory project, the report explores the extent to which data are available on different aspects of validation in different education sectors. The results show a lack of comprehensive national statistics on validation, exacerbated in many countries by a lack of a clear regulatory framework on validation and/or mandate for organisations responsible for validation to build up integrated databases or release annual data. A further challenge is the fragmented offer of validation opportunities. Recommendations highlight the need for the collection of data on different aspects of validation take-up. Encouraging new and/or existing working groups, inter-ministerial committees or similar institutions involving stakeholders can help assess how regional or national data could be compiled/improved and used for planning to inform policy.
Abstract from publisher's website with additional information.
Notes: The 'European inventory on validation of non-formal and informal learning: 2016 update' is indexed in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 128.361 and the 'European guidelines for validating non-formal and informal learning' at TD/TNC 123.210.