Work Package 2 - Methodology

Coordinator: UNICA (www.unica-network.eu)

Contact person: Kris Dejonckheere ( tel: +32[0]2 514 78 00, e-mail: office@unica-network.eu )

 Content:  

The WP’s key objective is to conceptualise a common denominator and translation tool allowing an articulation between ECTS and ECVET. WP2 envisages learning and training as an educational continuum with different emphases dependent on HE or VET sphere under the mainstream of lifelong learning. The success of WP2 hinges upon the vital recognition of different concepts of the progression and completion of periods of learning and their subsequent clarification in both spheres.  

Main tasks and activities: 

·   Research and review of the current state of implementation of the two systems 

·   Mapping of good-practice of existing methodologies designed to link the two systems 

·   Composition of a glossary of indispensable terms which underpin both concepts and still carry conflicting definitions and connotations  

·   Draft of a European Definitions’ Framework introducing a common understanding of core concepts 

·   Identification of the bases for a common methodology linking the workload and learning outcomes approaches 

·   Establishment of learning outcomes and learning pathways as a concrete tool to translate between both worlds in order to assess, revitalise and innovate existing programmes in both spheres 

·   Specification of evaluation and validation procedures for each credit system and definition of credit points allocation 

·   Review of existing quality assurance cultures in both spheres with a perspective to arrive at an integrative quality culture which safeguards confidence in both learning outcomes and learning pathways   

·   Update of the methodology further to the inputs of WP3 (operational testing) and WP4 (Quality Assurance)  

Our methodological approach will be elaborated as a cycle in order to integrate the following three objectives: 

ØDefine an overarching frame allowing the articulation of both methodological approaches (learning outcomes and learning pathways) within the same training or educational programme 

ØDefine the role of both credit systems and allow for trajectories of comprehension between them 

ØEnable all partners to enter the cycle, regardless of whether or not they have already implemented ECTS 

These reflexions will be used to produce a methodological guide (i.e. a standard and generic guide) which can be applied to any training or education programme.  

Main milestones and performance indicators:  

- Mapping of present situation: Report with a literature-based review of the current state of affairs developed. 

- Glossary of terms: Draft of a European Definitions’ Framework introducing a common understanding of core concepts  

- Translation of tools: Definition of an overarching frame allowing the articulation of both methodological approaches (learning outcomes and learning pathways) within the same training or educational programme

Monitoring and evaluation:

Monthly electronic meetings for status updates on WP2 Task. An evaluation of the completed work in WP2 will be produced for the Progress and Final reports.