vocational skills
Patrick Werquin: “RPL does not yet reach the neediest”
“Fear of failure and lack of guidance keep those who need it most from accessing recognition of prior learning,” writes Patrick Werquin, professor at the French higher education institution CNAM, in his column. He has worked in education and the labour market across Africa, Europe and Southeast Asia.
Learners with special needs: A new approach to recognising prior learning
Wales is pioneering a fresh approach to recognising prior learning, placing learners with additional learning needs at the centre and emphasising independent living skills rather than qualifications.
Villalba: Validation that empowers – putting learners at the centre
”If validation processes are too complex or inaccessible, they fail their purpose,” writes Ernesto Villalba from the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Education and Training (Cedefop). He calls for stronger support throughout identification and documentation.
Recognition of prior learning helps migrant women unlock their potential
As Europe struggles with fragmented systems for recognising prior learning (RPL), the EmpowerHer project offers an innovative approach that helps migrant women validate their work and life competences, build confidence and realise their potential.
EDITORIAL Why validation and recognition of prior learning matter now more than ever
In her editorial, ELM Editorial Board member Beth John explores the benefits of validation and recognition of prior learning. “Validation enhances motivation, self-worth, and supports efficient upskilling and reskilling,” she says.
Elif Bahar, OECD: “Upskilling demands flexibility, funding and motivation”
Elif Bahar from the OECD stresses the need for workers to update their skills—but how, when time, cost and access are barriers? In her Speakers’ Corner column, Bahar shares possible solutions. The column series is produced in cooperation with the European Association for the Education of Adults.
Project Stories: Empowering career advisors to combat digital exclusion
Gudrun Totland Raddatz from the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration discusses a competency package developed for the employees to help combat digital exclusion among residents.
Micro-credentials for megatrends: Nordic and German approaches
Amid European challenges, the Nordic countries and Germany are turning to adult education, short-term courses and micro-credentials for solutions. A closer look at the countries reveals differences and areas for improvement.
A Faroe Islands project helps young adults build confidence in education
The Faroese project Serbreyt invests in the education of young people with special needs. The key is identifying the strengths of the learners and building on them.
EDITORIAL Making flexibility real
In her editorial on the theme of Flexible Learning Approaches, ELM Editorial Board member Antra Carlsen explores flexible learning and highlights micro-credentials as an important tool for supporting it.
