Implementing a high-quality validation process: International conference in Oslo

How can validation processes for non-formal and informal learning be better and more systematically integrated into education and training systems? What do we know about the results and effects of validation? These and other questions were explored by an International Conference held in Oslo, 5-7 March, entitled “To implement a high quality validation process – a challenge!”

The conference, attracting about 90 national and international participants, was organised by the Nordic Network of Adult Learning (NVL), the Norwegian Agency for Lifelong Learning (Vox), the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training, and the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) of the European Commission. Focussing on recent research on validation of non-formal and informal learning, examples were presented of good practice in learning from the Nordic and other European countries. The conference gave a forum to discuss the latest policy developments in Europe and access to validation for specific target groups. It was also an opportunity to share and disseminate the experience of European projects in the field of validation (such as the European Credit System for Vocational Education and Training under the Leonardo da Vinci programme).

UIL presented its current work on the UNESCO Guidelines on recognition, validation and accreditation (RVA) of the outcomes of non-formal and informal learning, which are in the latter stages of finalisation.