Qualification Frameworks and Specifications The European Qualifications Framework

Qualification Frameworks and Specifications The European Qualifications Framework Ken Currie CAPDM Godollo, September 2013

This Talk • An introduction to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) • An National example – The Scottish Qualifications Authority • How they relate • Implications for SME 2 2

The EQF • A non-binding recommendation of the European Parliament Council 2008 – Provides a common reference framework as a translation device between different qualifications systems and their levels – Complements ECTS, Europass, Erasmus • national qualifications systems to relate to the EQF by 2010 • A requirement of all Member States in 2012? 3

Key Recommendations • a reference tool to compare the qualification levels of different systems • all new qualifications refer to an appropriate EQF level • use an approach based on learning outcomes when defining qualifications • promote the validation of non-formal and informal learning, and hence LLL 4

It does not. . . • describe specific qualifications – Specific qualifications are mapped to the appropriate EQF level through National qualifications systems or Authorities 5

An Example: the SQA • The Scottish Qualifications Authority – The only accrediting body for Schools and Further Education in Scotland – does not accredit Higher Education • Our universities are granted a charter by the Government 6

Qualifications Framework • 12 Levels in Scotland; 8 in Europe – See http: //www. sqa. org. uk/files_ccc/readyreckoner. html 7

Qualifications • Higher National Certificates/Diplomas – Designed to meet the needs of employers both locally and nationally – Large range of subjects • Vocational Qualifications – Modern Apprenticeships, Scottish VQs 8

Higher National Award • Made up of HN Unit credits, at level 7/8 (Level 5 EQF) – one credit = 40 hours timetabled learning • HN Certificates =12 credits – usually takes one year to complete • HN Diplomas = 30 credits – usually takes two years to complete 9

Arrangement Documents • HNC/Ds specified by an Arrangement Document – a validation document – information about the Award • • its aims guidance on access details of the Award structure guidance on delivery 10

HN Courses • Courses have a formal specification – Purpose – Credit points and level – Core skills – Context for delivery – Assessment of Outcomes – Outcomes themselves 11

Summary • Formal structures & Specifications – Quite demanding, as SME 2 found out • All courses accredited through the SQA, at a point on the SCQF automatically ‘levelled’ in the EQF 12