International co-operation with higher vocational qualifications : an example

Abstract

An initiative was undertaken to develop cooperation with higher vocational qualifications between two "new" universities that were formerly polytechnics: City University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the University of Northumbria at Newcastle (UNN) in England. The higher vocational qualifications were the Higher Diploma (HD) from CUHK and the Higher National Diploma (HND) from UNN, accredited by the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC). There were two aims: to obtain international recognition for the HD and to provide HD graduates with the opportunity of concurrent registration with BTEC to obtain the HND. Issues that were discussed in regard to implications for students/graduates, staff, and for CUHK included the considerable cost-benefit for the students. Assessment reporting requirements meant additional work for staff and students, although this would be offset against revenue and the less tangible benefits potentially available from international cooperation. It was apparent that there was a need to develop worldwide systems for recognition of higher vocational qualifications that represented capacity outcomes essential for social and economic development, particularly in developing countries. CUHK recommended that the offer of a Memorandum of Cooperation should not be accepted. (Contains 16 references.) (YLB)