Global Inventory of Regional and National Qualifications Frameworks 2017, Vol. I: Thematic Chapters

The global inventory 2017 further strengthens the knowledge base on developments in national and regional qualifications frameworks, as implemented by countries and regions, by end of 2016. It acts as an observatory of progress in establishing NQFs, as well as the challenges and success factors in implementation. The thematic chapters (Volume I) discuss key trends and policy issues emerging from qualifications frameworks and learning outcomes reforms and developments. Volume II consists of NQF case studies of 100 countries from all continents and seven regional qualifications frameworks (RQF).

The case studies look at the educational, social, economic and political context in which an NQF is embedded, main policy objectives, implementation of learning outcomes, stakeholder involvement and institutional arrangements. They also show how NQFs open for and link to validation arrangements, support recognition and learning pathways. They conclude with important lessons and future plans.

The global inventory draws on inventories from four agencies: the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop), the European Training Foundation (ETF), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL), working and communicating with country officials and experts. It also draws on extensive international research in qualifications reforms, comparability of qualifications, and use of learning outcomes.