This term is commonly used in at least two different ways/contexts: (a) formal qualification: the formal outcome (certificate, diploma or title) of an assessment and validation process which is obtained when a competent body determines that an individual has achieved learning outcomes to given standards and/or possesses the necessary competence to do a job in a specific area of work; a qualification confers official recognition of the value of learning outcomes in the labour market and in education and training, and can be a legal entitlement to practise a trade; and (b) job requirements: knowledge, aptitudes and skills required to perform the specific tasks attached to a particular work position. (Source: CEDEFOP 2011).
See also ‘
National Qualifications Framework’.
