Recognition of Qualifications Obtained as a Result of Non-Formal and Informal Learning: Foreign Experience and Prospects for Russian Practice

Abstract

The article discusses modern approaches to the procedures for awarding qualifications based on the results of formal, non-formal, and informal education. The article analyzes domestic and best foreign practices that have received recognition from the world educational community. Innovative tools for assessing qualifications are considered. In this regard, the experience of South Korea described in the article is interesting, using the Register of Academic Credit Units as the main tool for the recognition of qualifications. Similar systems are used in France and Denmark. In Germany, Norway and Japan, modern information and communication systems are being actively introduced to accumulate information about the qualifications of the adult population. In Italy, it is legally established that qualifications obtained through formal, non-formal, and informal means are equivalent. The experience of Italy is valuable in that the results of not only non-formal but also informal learning are taken into account during the qualification recognition procedure. The educational legislation of the Russian Federation makes it possible to take into account certain documented results of non-formal and informal learning obtained in the course of mastering additional education programs, including in relation to higher education programs. However, some learning outcomes can be difficult to recognize, especially if they are not documented. The article proposes a project model for the recognition of qualifications obtained in the course of non-formal and informal education, which could be considered as promising for the Russian Federation.