Policy Responses to Improve National Qualifications Systems

Abstract

This chapter draws together recent policy responses to the lifelong learning agenda that involve national qualifications systems. Countries described the major pressures for changes and innovations over the past decade (inter alia from the various stakeholder groups), how policy has evolved to deal with these pressures, and any changes anticipated in the qualifications system. Country experts also identified the major constraints on reforms and innovations. This chapter is therefore a synopsis of evidence drawn mainly from background reports. It attempts to give an overview of the ways countries perceive policy development related to qualifications systems. This wide policy view sets the scene for more detailed work on mechanisms that link qualifications systems and lifelong learning.