Qualifications and Learning Outcomes
With the developments of the EQF a significant paradigm shift took place. From curricula and training plans defined through specified input volumes like number of pages or allotted time, and with intended Learning Outcomes indicated, the principles governing EQF and ECVET requires that the obtained LOs are at the core of a qualification definition – and to be assessed, validated and recognised. Skillsbank is compatible with the paradigm shift towards Learning Outcomes orientation. Using LOs is an alternative way to define and design education, training and qualifications. The shift from learning inputs, such as duration, type of education, location, programme, institution etc. to learning outcomes (learner centred approach), opens up for new possibilities to cover work based learning, including non- and informally acquired skills and competences.

Skillsbank takes as a starting point the idea of defining qualifications according to the EQF and ECVET principles, meaning that Learning Outcomes (LOs) are at the core of the system. Learning Outcomes may be described in a holistic way, or specified in competence, skills and knowledge, and they are usually organised in units representing a functionally coherent group of LOs. In the Skillsbank system Learning Outcomes are structured in units and build up to qualification matrixes. LOs can be depicted through a simple description or by dividing them into competence, knowledge and skills where relevant. For more information on defining qualifications and LOs, take a look at www.ecvet-team.eu
Pre-structured matrixes can be entered into Skillsbank by the institution that has access to Skillsbank as a Competent Body as this is the organisation that is responsible for the quality assurance of the qualification. Take a look at our introduction videos in order to learn how to enter qualifications and LOs into Skillsbank. If feasible, the task of uploading matrixes in an ECVET format can be contracted directly with NTIM.

Qualifications and LOs are entered separately in Skillsbank as they represent different steps in the matrix development. Learning Outcomes are organised in logically coherent units through which the full qualification is defined. When entering Learning Outcomes, some principles must be kept in mind.  LOs can be registered at different levels where the level indicates how detailed the LO is. The LOs registered at the top level are the least detailed. They can still individually be depicted either in more general descriptions, or divided into separate specifications of competence, knowledge and skills. Further LOs that are to be entered can then be positioned in a hierarchy under the top level LO. The content of the sub-Learning Outcome will therefore be strongly related to the first LO, however the latter is more specific in its content. In Skillsbank, numbering is used to indicate which level the LO is entered on. An example would be: the first entered LO would be numbered with 3.1, and the next LO that is entered under the first LO, would be indicated with the number 3.1.1. The first number (3) indicates which Unit of Learning Outcomes it is, in this case Unit number three. For learning how to enter LO on the correct level, take a look at the introduction videos.