Recognition and validation of non-formal and informal learning for VET teachers and trainers in the EU Member States

Validation of non-formal and informal learning is a centrepiece of lifelong learning and has become a priority for national and European vocational education and training (VET) policies in the last decade. Validation of non-formal and informal learning is not only a political challenge but also an ethical and especially a methodological question : how to measure, how to validate, how to assess. These developments have considerable impact on the professional development of VET teachers and trainers, as they are keys to improving the quality of education and training. This report addresses the role of validation of non-formal and informal learning for enhanced professional recognition of VET teachers' and trainers' competences. It presents the outcomes of a study carried out by Cedefop's training of trainers' network - TTnet. From nine countries, 28 examples are described and analysed in the report. They highlight developments and current practice by describing the aims and outcomes, the processes and methodologies of validation, as well as quality assurance mechanisms put in place.