Peer learning activity on the development of National Qualifications Frameworks

08 October 2007 to 10 October 2007
Budapest, Hungary

Peer Learning Cluster or other group

Recognition of Learning outcomes

Background

The first PLA on the theme of National Qualifications Frameworks was hosted by the Ministry of Education and Culture in Hungary.
 
The main objective of this PLA was to support peer learning across the participating countries in terms of:
  • understanding the underlying rationale for the development of learning outcomes-based NQFs;
  • fostering the exchange of views, and methodologies used by participating countries in developing national qualifications systems and frameworks .
The two main themes that were explored within these objectives were:
  • the relationship between NQFs and sub-sectoral qualifications systems (e.g. general education, vocational education and training, and higher education);
  • the potential of NQFs and other instruments in promoting learning outcomes-based approaches in the work of educational institutions.

Description

Key lessons from the PLA:

The PLA was considered an important stage in a European exchange on NQF issues. For the purposes of future activities of the cluster, participants formulated a series of suggestions that the cluster could develop either through PLAs or by means of smaller and shorter seminars/exchanges. They, for instance, include the below items:
  • develop and keep up-to-date an overview of NQF developments;
  • respond to issues raised by the EQF Implementation Preparatory Group (since 2008: EQF Advisory Group);
  • formulate a policy brief which could support the development of and dialogue on NQFs;
  • develop guidelines on the use of learning outcomes;
  • run a PLA dedicated to the issue of building of mutual trust in relation to NQF design;
  • explore the roles of NQFs in quality assurance processes; etc.
Knowledge System for Lifelong Learning