Learning Connections supports the implementation of the Scottish Executive policy for Community Learning and Development by working with local partnerships and national agencies in the broad context of Community Planning.
Learning Connections has a development officer in place whose role is to raise awareness of the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and how it can help in the development and implementation of Community Learning and Development Action Plans and the programmes of learning that are delivered by a range of partners.
The SCQF is a common language for talking about training and learning. It recognises the demands of learning and the time it takes to learn. It allows all assessed learning to be recognised for credit and all learner achievement to be described in common terms. Progression routes should be clearer and new opportunities created for work based learning. Scottish Qualifications placed on the framework have a level and credit points.
Recognising learning achieved in informal settings and through activities in the community is part of a process of life long learning. The SCQF could be used to help learners, including literacies learners, build up their skills in a demonstrable way that supports their life and career goals. This will support a coherent approach between the broad range of institutions and agencies currently offering learning programmes in both formal and less formal settings.
In some circumstances it may be useful for community groups or other organisations to seek credit rating for informal, experiential and community based training and development. SQA, Scotland's colleges and universities are authorised to credit rate and other options are being considered.
The following reports look at different ways the SCQF is being used throughout Scotland:
SCQF has a role to play in Continuing Professional Development both for CLD professionals and for other disciplines.
Further information is available from the SCQF website or from Edith MacQuarrie SCQF Development Coordinator.