Project

Observal-Net

Following the Leonardo-Observal project, a decision was reached to use the data gathered at the Observatory. This led to the Observal-Net project, which is sponsored by the EU's Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP) under one of its transversal key activities entitled, "Policy co-operation and innovation in lifelong learning (KA1)".

Rido / Fotolia

The Observal-Net project (www.observal-net.eu) is a follow-up to the Leonardo-Observal project (2007-2010), in which the Swiss Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (SFIVET) participated as a silent partner and which culminated in the creation of the European Observatory of Validation of Non-formal and Informal Learning (www.observal.org).

The aims of the Observal-Net project are as follows:

To create transversal networks capable of developing national and transnational models based on best practice in the validation of non-formal and informal learning (VNIL). Three thematic groups of transversal experts were formed: Work-based competences: Factors for success in implementing VNIL in the workplace; VNIL profession: Definition of competence profile for VNIL professionals; Bottom up: The role of local initiatives in supporting VNIL and strategies for their integration
To develop coherent, complete and flexible models for VNIL practices and recommendations, based on a comparative analysis of instances of best practice in different European countries
To integrate these practices through strategic development and the formulation of national/regional VNIL policies, in particular through the creation of a policy group composed exclusively of policy makers, whose purpose is to form a peer learning group to share VNIL strategies at a policy level

Specifically, within Observal-Net, SFIVET is responsible for the Bottom-up thematic group, and will mainly concentrate on the following activities:

1. Developing a national VNIL network

Mapping the network of stakeholders with an interest in VNIL.
Organising two national stakeholders fora to bring together a certain number of these stakeolders according to specific themes. The theme of the first forum, which will take place in September 2012, will be: from regulation to practice and vice versa. National stakeholders fora will be places to exchange and debate ideas, particularly on best practice.
Developing national action plans for the duration of the project (general objectives for the development and implementation of VNIL in Switzerland).
Forming a national stakeholders consensus.

2. Extending the VNIL knowledge base

Tagging case studies hosted on the Obersvatory in accordance with criteria established in consultation with the Bottom-up thematic group.
Researching Observal data to identify and list instances of best practice.
Using one or more instances of best practice to support discussion at fora.
Adding to the knowledge base through new case studies, multimedia material or legal documents.
Producing/updating national reports on the state of VNIL.

3. Transversal activities

Identifying criteria to define a bottom-up approach.
Analysing case studies where a bottom-up approach was used.
Drafting an expert report on the various themes.

Method

Research, literature review, workshops.

Publications

Presentations

Observal-Net

Weber Guisan, S., Voit, J., Lengauer, S., Proinger, E., Duvekot, R., & Aagaard, K. (2014). Cooperate to Validate. OBSERVALNET_Consortium (Ed.), OBSERVAL-NET experts reports on Validation of Non-formal and Informal Learning (VNIL)2013. Malta.

Weber Guisan, S. (2014). Evaluer en VAE: quelles méthodes pour quels objets pour quels publics ? Un débat pour en mesurer les enjeux. Education permanente - Revue de formation continue, 1, 52-24.

Voit, J. (2014, September). The Observal-net project and the bottom-up perspective in Validation of non formal and informal learning VNIL. Paper presented at the European Youth Forum: consultation meeting on Validation on NFE, Mollina, Spain.

Weber Guisan, S. (2012, October). First findings and elements of the "Expert report on gras-root promotion of VNIL". Paper presented at the Observal-Net full partner meeting, Geneva, Switzerland.