The European Credit System for Vocational Education and Training (ECVET) – The current state

The ECVET is one of the common EU tools, aiming to support the transfer, recognition and accumulation of assessed learning outcomes of individuals working to achieve a qualification and to promote lifelong learning through flexible and individualised learning pathways (European Parliament and Council of the EU, 2009). The creation and implementation of main ECVET principles should lead to better understanding of citizens′ learning outcomes (LO), their transparency, transnational mobility, and portability across and within Member States (MS).

The report examines whether existing credit systems provide conditions for individuals to have their learning accumulated or transferred towards a qualification. It is based on national responses provided by the ECVET users’ group from 28 EU Member States and four EFTA countries.

The findings suggest that ECVET-related developments are often part and result of the broader reform processes aimed at strengthening learning outcomes approach, permeability of education and training systems, transparency of qualifications, and better employability and employment. It is sometimes difficult to separate the developments of ECVET principles from those of NQFs, validation of non-formal and informal learning, and modularisation of training programmes.

Chosen excerpts by Job Market Monitor. Read the whole story at  ECVET in Europe | Cedefop