European Observatory of Validation of
non-formal & informal activities
Leonardo da Vinci (Networks) - LLP 2007
133980-LLP-1-2007-1-BE-LEONARDO-LNW
Recognition and validation of non formal
learning is a key element of lifelong learning policy. It allows individuals
to develop in a positive, developmental way their personal and professional
routes through different sectors or institutions without dead ends. But it is
necessary to remove obstacles created by compartmentalised approaches, by approaches
not really taking into account experiential learning. Exchanges of best practices
can be a way to convince individuals, institutions, actors, employers.
Aims and objectives of the project:
Aims:
- To develop a strong network for the transfer
and development of innovation, and integrated European solutions for the identification,
assessment and recognition of non formal and informal learning
- To contribute to increasing participation
in lifelong learning
- To reinforce cooperation between actors
and sectors
Objectives:
- To create a permanent European Observatory
on validation of non formal and informal learning. The Observatory will be
based on a European network of national experts (including actors from learning
and training providers in all sectors and NGOs), who have a leading role in
their countries and a global vision of existing practices.
- To collect and analyse existing data
and present them in a common format that will allow both comparison and articulation
of practices developed in different contexts or sectors, and their evaluation
using criteria defined on the basis of the "common principles".
- To identify regulations, organisation,
pilot projects and experiments, standards and reference frameworks, tools
and methods, purposes and approaches in the workplace, results registered
(access, credits, exemptions, award of qualifications etc.) and statistics
available for the development of practice. These will be drawn from private
and public learning and training institutions, companies and professional
bodies and NGOs.
- To review national debates or discussions
between the most influent actors (ministries, learning and training organisations,
social partners, companies, NGOs) on validation issues. This is a topic that
is a 'hot topic' at different levels in many countries and one which often
generates sceptical reactions and opposition. It encapsulates many of the
current debates: the relationship between education and work; the strong focus
on the individual (since the assessment is essentially an individual process,
each candidate having a unique history and experience); the repositioning
of formal learning; the redistribution some way the "learning power";
and the necessity to think in terms of processes, continuity, progression
in a lifelong learning perspective.
- To situate the debates in a learning
culture and in a European policy context especially the EQF.
- To review research on the policy and
practice of validation and create an annual annotated bibliography and literature
review.
- To promote an annual European validation
prize.