The EQF and National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) has revolutionized adult learning in Ireland, enabling adults to gain nationally recognised qualifications in community education courses. In our latest blog Niamh O’Reilly CEO discusses the importance of the EQF and NFQ in supporting all learners to make their educational aspirations a reality.
Both the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) represent significant gateways for progression for adult learners across community, further and higher education. As an NGO committed to supporting greater equity of access to education for adult learners and as national coordinator for the European Agenda for Adult Learning (EAAL), AONTAS has witnessed first-hand the benefits of these Frameworks for adult learners - many have embraced the progression potential offered.
The Frameworks have become tools for providing fair access to qualifications, enabling educationally disadvantaged adult learners to gain nationally recognised awards and has supported equity of access to education. No longer the preserve of formal educational institutions, the NFQ opened the doors, and potential for learners in non-formal education to gain the currency required to move across the Framework of qualifications. Flexibility in learning is also a core element of the Frameworks which offer both minor and major awards for learners. Importantly, it validates knowledge which was hidden, making the implicit life skills explicit by way of a nationally recognized qualification.
The EQF and Supporting Lifelong Learning
The EQF supports lifelong learning by making educational dreams a reality. Minor awards serve as an important first step for learners, building towards further progression, including to higher education.
Making a significant impact on learning progression – learners’ experiences of the NFQ
“Community education gave me the confidence to progress to third level”
Sharon returned to learning by enrolling for a number of NFQ Level 5 modules in childcare. Through the supportive and encouraging environment of community education, Sharon successfully attained an NFQ Level 5 Major award, progressed to Level 6 course. After that she gained a First Class Honours Degree in Early Childhood Education and has just completed her Masters. From incremental steps to full awards, the flexibility, and legitimacy of NFQ qualifications supports adult learners to access lifelong learning opportunities.
“I want to get the recognition I deserve after 15 years of volunteering in my community”
Carol returned to formal adult education studying for an NFQ Level 5 course in Health and Community. She told us: “I know that I’m good at what I do but like many others I lack the qualifications to back this up”.
“Take the first step to gaining your qualifications. It is the best thing you will ever do.”
Majella is another learner who completed an NFQ Level 3 course in Communication and Personal Effectiveness. This was her first ever qualification. Progressing from NFQ level 4 to Level 5 in health service skills, she secured employment as a carer - a job she absolutely loves.
The Future of the Frameworks
Going forward we need to build equality into the foundations of the Frameworks so that all learners can make their educational aspirations a reality. Whether in non-formal (community education) or formal education we must offer all learners the opportunity to gain a nationally recognized qualification. The value of the NFQ and EQF is that the destination is set but the paths are not defined, enabling learning in all its forms to have a place within the Framework. An award at any level is important to learners; it is not a race to the end. Each individual achievement is hugely important, and the Frameworks allow recognition of this. At the EQF 10 year celebratory conference AONTAS will be calling for assurances that the Framework maintains its accessibility to all adult learners. Furthermore, at a time of increasing regulation of qualification provision we hope the NFQ can be a truly national Framework, that balances robust quality assurance processes with accessibility for all learners across a range of providers, particularly, community education.
For more information:
Follow the EQF 10 year anniversary conference live here:
http://europa.clients.telemak.com/140673/stage.php
To learn more about the NFQ and EQF click here: http://www.qqi.ie/Articles/Pages/National-Framework-of-Qualifications-(NFQ).aspx
To learn more about adult learners’ experiences click here:
https://www.aontas.com/assets/resources/Learner-Work/Im-an-Adult-Learner-2016.pdf
To learn more about community education in Ireland click here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=n1IGOYXx7B0