International recognition of vocational qualifications

Abstract

Certain issues are relevant to the international recognition of vocational qualifications: (1) the assumption that each country does or should value vocational education and training; (2) the quality of the national system and the implications for international recognition of qualifications, including recognition of the accrediting and awarding bodies; and (3) quality assurance and assessment systems being developed in various countries that will contribute to international recognition of qualifications and be used by countries to monitor and judge qualifications from other countries. Clearly, the policies represented by the European Community (EC) Directives will have far-reaching effects as the EC network expands. As part of the EC, the United Kingdom's National Vocational Qualifications Framework will also have a strong influence internationally through the network of Commonwealth countries. Three bodies offer the Higher Diploma (HD) in Hong Kong. A proposal for a memorandum of cooperation whereby HD students would be entitled to a degree by the University of Northumbria at Newcastle was declined. Overseas universities offer programs in Hong Kong that recognize higher vocational qualifications and with conversion courses designed for HD entry. The role of the International Vocational Education and Training Association should be that of a change agent that works with other bodies to ensure more recognition and support is given to higher vocational education. (Contains 26 references.) (YLB)