Validation of non-formal and informal learning: From European policies to national implementation (full text in Greek)

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the reasons why the certification of non-formal education and informal learning in Greece is more related to the enhancement of the employability of the individual and less to the promotion of its social inclusion. Additionally, it aims to look into the prospects of linking certification of non-formal education and informal learning with Greek higher education. The sample of the survey consisted of people working professionally in the field of non-formal education and the development of policies to promote certification of non-formal education and informal learning in Greece and Europe. Research data were collected through twelve semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was adopted. It revealed two main reasons why certification of non-formal education and informal learning is mainly aimed at the employability of the individual. The first concerns the design of the national certification system of non-formal education and informal learning based on the needs of the labour market and the second the difficult economic conditions prevailing in Greece today. Finally, it appeared that linking the certification of non-formal education and informal learning to higher education could be achieved by changing the existing system of access to higher education.