Results of the VALLA Project
The VALLA project was carried out in a series of related activities and work packages. Using the aquaculture sector as a pilot, VALLA aimed to demonstrate how to validate and recognize short-term sectoral training, in particular non-formal learning.
The VALLA methodology started with an occupational mapping exercise of the aquaculture industry which has a wide range of job roles of differing levels of complexity and skills (WP2). The complementary functional analysis (WP2) then enabled the development of a range of occupational standards. These occupational standards form a vital part of the process of writing Learning Outcomes that accurately describe levels of achievement that can be set at the appropriate level in the EQF reference levels which are needed when trying to describe Learning Outcomes. The VALLA occupational map contains information concerning jobs, roles and occupations available within the European Aquaculture sector, with key functions defined.
PLEASE CLICK HERE for the final project report (public part).
Go to WP2- Occupational mapping of the European Aquaculture Sector - results
VALLA developed a sectoral online “Learning Outcome” Tool (WP3). The tool is an online step-by-step dedicated software tool based on existing European Best Practice which enables trainers to define non-formal training units in terms of competences and learning outcomes as well as describing level, assessment, evidence requirements, delivery, credit value etc.
Go to the online Learning Outcome tool (WP3)
At the heart of the VALLA project are several different case studies (WP4), examplars of different types of courses which at present lack formal validation/accreditation in both Vocational Education and Training and Higher Education. Yet these are often formative educational experiences which are rightly regarded as valuable.
Go to WP4 - From Competences to Learning Outcomes - results
The VALLA methodology, online tool, and case studies/exemplars (covering HE, VET, formal and informal learning), were presented to several European awarding bodies which were also responsible for creating National Qualification Frameworks (NQFs). The idea was to test whether the VALLA methodology and format would be suitable for describing non-formal training and would fall within national structures and could as such, be evaluated and validated (WP5). This extremely valuable consultation (with its undertones of political added value for the European education sector) can be seen to authenticate both the VALLA process and its products.
EQF glossary (10 EU languages)
The VALLA partnership also developed a new EQF glossary, based on the glossary that was set up in the WAVE project (2003 – 2006). New terms related to EQF were added to the WAVE glossary which is available in 10 EU languages.
The glossary consists of the most common terms, using as far as possible official documents as sources of the definitions.
The glossary can be accessed here: http://tool.vallaproject.com/glossary/search/english/
First you select the language icon and then the first letter of the word you wish to find. This will take you to a page containing all the words beginning with that letter of the alphabet in the language you have chosen. To find out where it was sourced, click on the web link provided.
