Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of Non-formal and Informal Learning

Recognition, Validation and Accreditation (RVA) of non-formal and informal learning is one of the pillars of any lifelong learning policy. Consequently, many countries have developed a national system for RVA. UIL considers it of the utmost importance to use RVA for integration of outcomes of non-formal and informal learning into national, regional and global qualifications frameworks. Integration into Qualifications Frameworks (QF) will help ensure participants’ access to education institutions and workplaces.

Qualifications Frameworks

RVA country profiles and case studies

To facilitate comparisons and sharing of experience, UIL has developed a common structure for the presentation of RVA country profiles and RVA case studies. The RVA country profiles of education and training outline the challenges that RVA addresses and describe developments in standards, policies and frameworks. The RVA country profiles and case studies are continuously updated.

The RVA case studies cover implementation in three sectors: education, training and the world of work, and civil society.

RVA case studies in education highlight how countries are making RVA a feature of educational reforms and an integral part of lifelong learning strategies.
RVA case studies in training and the world of work present examples of how countries are using RVA to meet the needs of industry and enhance the economic capacity of the workforce.
RVA case studies in civil society highlight how countries recognize competences acquired in non-formal and informal situations in communities and through volunteer work.

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UIL’s Global Observatory of Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of Non-formal and Informal Learning (Global RVA Observatory) documents recent RVA developments that aim to contribute to policy and practice in UNESCO Member States as part of UNESCO’s commitment to promoting lifelong learning for all.

The UIL Global RVA Observatory collects and disseminates best practices from RVA systems at different stages of development and provides ready access to information on RVA. The Observatory invites policymakers, national experts, practitioners and all those with a professional interest in RVA to exchange information on their country’s RVA models. In addition, UIL reviews and analyses the implementation of RVA policy and practice in Member States. These activities and studies are to be found under RVA themes.

The UIL Global RVA Observatory is an integral part of UNESCO’s commitment to implement the UNESCO Guidelines for the Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of the Outcomes of Non-formal and Informal Learning.

Recognition, validation and accreditation of all forms of learning outcomes is a practice that makes visible and values the full range of competences (knowledge, skills and attitudes) that individuals have obtained through various means in different phases and contexts of their lives. RVA gives individuals an incentive to continue to learn, empowers them and enables them to become more active in the labour market and in society in general. For disadvantaged groups, particularly, RVA can create a more level playing field in education and training (UNESCO Guidelines, 2012).