Validation of non-formal, informal learning

Validation of non-formal and informal learning is a new challenge on Malta's agenda for educational reform and innovation. At present there are no systematic provisions to identify, assess and recognise skills and competences acquired through non-formal and informal learning or through work experience. At the same time, many examples of good practice in both summative and formative validation of non-formal and informal learning exist at the level of individual initiatives supported by social partners and organisations.

Following the enactment of legislation, the Malta Qual-ifications Council intends to develop a decentralised system of assessment, recognition and validation of non-formal and informal learning to ensure that standards and guidelines are respected through internal and external verifiers.

The MQC has already embarked on a pilot studies to develop methodological frameworks, tools, methods of assessment, sectoral skills unit, together with partners such as the Foundation for Human Resources Development and Żgħażagħ Azzjoni Kattolika (ŻAK).

A national colloquium on the subject was held on June 4 at Robert Sammut hall, Floriana.

It was addressed by speakers from the MQC, ŻAK, the University, the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology, the Employment and Training Corporation, the European Union Programmes Agency, and the Malta Printing Industry Association, and attended by representatives of unions and associations, NGOs, Church, political and youth organisations, ministries, authorities, and post-secondary institutions.

MQC chief executive James Calleja delivered a presentation on the levels of the Malta Qualifications Framework against which the validation of informal and non-formal learning will be assessed, the fundamental principles, indicators and process of validation of informal and non-formal learning (VINFL), the benefits of validation for individuals, employers and society, and the common European principles and menthods of assessment of VINFL.

He also spoke about a Leonardo da Vinci project that the MQC is co-ordinating on the subject together with various European partners.