Swedish Qualifications Framework (SeQF) Seminar on NQFs in the Nordic Countries, 30 November 2017, Helsinki Carina Lindén, Swedish Ministry of Education and Research
Presentation on SeQF Initial reactions and important point of departures The process from recommendation to framework Nature and scope of SeQF Regulation of the framework Modell of application Aspirations and the added value of the framework State of play
Initial reactions to the EQF recommendation Gains not seen as obvious at national level if restricted to the formal education system. Substantial part of education and training takes part outside the formal education system. Sectors, continuous training in working life, liberal adult education, labour market training To include qualifications awarded outside the formal education system and bring the qualifications together in a national framework could increase transparency and give a useful overview of qualifications awarded in Sweden.
Scope and point of departure Comprehensive framework to include all types of qualifications regardless of provider. The development to be characterized by openness, inclusiveness and dialogue with relevant national authorities and other stakeholders. The creation of a framework that inspire confidence distinct demands on quality assurance and learning outcomes. The inclusive NQF to be developed gradually in pace with the interest from working life and sectors.
The introduction of SeQF a process 2008 EQF Recommendation adopted 2009-15 NCP conducts more than 10 commissions forms the basis for SeQF Broad national stakeholder involvement Advisory working group (NA and social partners) Referencing group (organisations formal education) Group of National Authorities providing qualifications 2014 Ministry of Education sends proposal out on (July-Oct) hearing to 143 stakeholders 2015 (April) Government Bill on SeQF presented 2015 (Aug) Ordinance on SeQF adopted by Government
Ordinance into force in two steps 1 st October 2015 Regulation of the framework - purpose - definition of qualification - 8 levels and descriptors - principle of best fit - levelling of qualifications fulfilling demands on learning outcomes and quality assurance 1 st January 2016 Regulation of application for levelling - systematic quality assurance - responsible authority - advisory body - application fee and validity of a decision - the possibility to appeal a decision - follow-up, supervision and the possibility to change a decision
Regulation of the framework in force 1 st of October 2015 Structure: 8 levels expressed in learning outcomes using the descriptors knowledge, skills and competence. adapted to Swedish circumstances independence responsibility, ability to assess results of work carried out by yourself or by others team work generally formulated in order to include qualifications from different areas and from different actors on equal terms Definition of qualification: documented learning outcomes expressed in knowledge, skills and competence. Principle of best fit: Overall assessment of the most suitable level. Qualifications that are regulated, quality assured and have learning outcomes specified in their regulation are levelled by the Government and included in the annex to the ordinance.
Regulation of application for levelling - in force 1 st of January 2016 (1) Possibility for providers to submit an application for qualification level 1-8 to the Agency for Higher Vocational Education (NCP). An advisory body will assist the Agency when deciding the relevant level for a qualification. The advisory body consists of the chair and up to 14 other members and members are appointed by the Agency after consultation with relevant authorities and organisations for a period of maximum 6 years. The application fee should correspond to the administration costs. Decision on level is valid for 10 years renewed application needed. A decision can be appealed to the Higher Education Appeals Board.
Regulation of application for levelling - in force 1 st of January 2016 (2) The Agency will at least once during the period follow-up and reaffirm that a qualification corresponds to the decided level as well as the requirement of learning outcomes the provider of such qualification fulfil the requirements of systematic quality work. The Agency may reconsider a decision if the requirements are not fulfilled.
Application step by step Identify occupational roles Half of the process is almost identical to that for developing a validation model Assessment by MYH supported by evidence from the Council MYH communicates the basis for decision Identify work tasks Apply for level placement Decision Classify skills Formulate qualification Publication
Develops a common language between education and labor market Clarifies and quality assure qualification content Increases the ability to meet skills needs Facilitates planning of skills development Provides competitive advantages Increased ablity to recruit students at the right level Increases attractiveness and competitiveness Supplied level can better correspond to demand Benefits of SeQF Sectors/ Industries/ Working life Educational providers Society Individuals Increases employability Facilitates validation Clarifies career paths Stimulates continued learning Creates overview Increases transparency Increases labour mobility Increases opportunities for matching skills Higher education Facilitates validation of prior learning Develops a common language between education and the labour market
State of play Web-based application procedures Support material Factual information Users manual Instructions on-line Ambassador network Dialogues Face-to-face support in writing LO 11 applications received
Participants in the development of SeQF