Making Learning Visible

Developing the recognition of non- formal& informal learning

Sharon Watson

Ensure all WEA students and volunteers have an opportunity to

identify● document ●assess ● certificate

learning outcomes, allowing each individual to take advantage of any or all of these, in accordance with his/her needs

• Promote fair access to recognition of learning outcomes for all students and volunteers, especially disadvantaged groups

• Develop and promote innovative and flexible recognition pathways across all four themes

• Ensure effective IAG on the benefits of, and opportunities for recognition for students and volunteers

• Support and implement the training and development of staff, tutors and volunteers involved in recognition

• Connect the WEA with the policy landscape and best practice in recognition of learning outcomes at national and European level

Why do we need to bother?

Recognising learning• ILPs• RARPA• Quality assured RARPA• End of course certificates• Publications and exhibitions• Celebrations and awards• Student blogs/case studies • Accreditation (external)• Qualifications

Current practice, innovations and opportunities

• Thinking Differently, Digital Diversity• WEAVE and Open Badges• WEA Internal Certificate• WEA Scotland- SQA Units• WEA Learn Online http://www.wealearnonline.org/• Quality Assured RARPA• Recognition/mentored pathways• Volunteers• Certificate of completion

Key messages• Recognition should be an

individual right• Comprehensive and flexible,

with clear progression routes• Create more parity between

formal and non- formal learning

• Create more targeted opportunities for disadvantaged groups

• Invest and collaborate!