Conference highlights formal, informal learning
The Foundation for Human Resources Development and the Malta Qualifications Council (MQC), in collaboration with the European Union Programmes Agency, is holding a half-day conference on 'The benefits to employers in valuing informal and non-formal...
The Foundation for Human Resources Development and the Malta Qualifications Council (MQC), in collaboration with the European Union Programmes Agency, is holding a half-day conference on 'The benefits to employers in valuing informal and non-formal learning' on Wednesday between 9 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. at the Radisson SAS Bay Point Resort, St Julian's.
The main focus of this conference is on the impact of the validation of informal and non-formal learning to the work environment. Research has shown that around 80 per cent of what adults learn is through informal and non-formal means. This includes the workplace as well as the direct experience that employers share with their employees.
In the past, such learning was considered as a very important element in the formation of the employee. With the advent of formal schooling, training and specialisation, informal and non-formal training became a Cinderella element on the list of required skills.
The Lisbon Agenda has once again put these valuable learning experiences in the limelight. All skills and competences whether learnt in formal or informal contexts should have the same parity of esteem and recognition. All skills contribute to economic growth, prosperity and a better quality of life.
The main focus of this initiative, taken by the MQC, to publish a policy document on the validation of informal and non-formal learning in Malta comes at a time when the local and international labour market is demanding new skills and competences. The conference aims at highlighting the benefits employers can derive from the recognition of informal and non-formal learning, particularly during the recruitment stage and in mapping the workforce skills and competences for expansion and further investment.
Validating informal and non-formal learning through certification and level-rating within Malta's Qualifications Framework is an added value to the employment sector in Malta. Employers will know better what experiences and skills the new individual is bringing to the company. Learners will be accredited for their capabilities, besides what they have learnt, and those organisations and companies accredited by the MQC for validating informal and non-formal learning will be more attractive to employees and will gain in status both locally and internationally.
For bookings, download a registration form from www.fhrd.org/RegistrationForm.pdf.