OBSERVAL-Net Validation Prize 2013

All organisations in Europe working in the sector of the Validation of Non-formal and Informal Learning (VNIL) are invited to submit case studies for the OBSERVAL-Net Validation Prize, which will be awarded in three categories in October 2013. The categories are the ‘Bottom Up Approach’, ‘New Profession’ and ‘Work-based Competence Development and Recognition’.

The deadline for submitting case studies is 26 April 2013. New or updated case studies can be sent by using the case study template available at http://www.observal-net.eu/. Please contact observal-net@eucen.eu for further information.

The Validation Prize is an award given in three categories to the most innovative and promising initiatives in the area of the Validation of Non-formal and Informal Learning (VNIL) in all sectors and levels of education in Europe. The prize will be awarded as part of the OBSERVAL-Net project and will showcase best VNIL practices in order to highlight the excellence of existing projects and to spread the awareness about VNIL initiatives among professionals in this area, as well as among citizens eager to have their learning outcomes and skills recognised and validated.
By highlighting and publishing best practices in the area of VNIL, the Validation Prize contributes to changing society’s mentality in the education and employment sectors towards the recognition that learning can also take place outside the formal structures and produce valid learning outcomes.
The 2013 edition focuses on three distinct categories:
 

• The Bottom Up Approach: The role of grassroots initiatives in supporting VNIL, and strategies towards their mainstreaming
• The New Profession: The competence profile required for VNIL professionals
• Work-based Competence Development and Recognition: The implementation of VNIL in the work place