The competence - a new paradigm in training and educational sectors

• Published in: Revista de stiinte politice 2014-01 (41), p.169
• Main Author: Nicula, Ileana
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Occupational training; Qualifications; Skills; Vocational education
• ISSN: 1584-224X

The globalization of the labour market imposes mobility, integration, equal opportunities for all the actors implied in this matter. The scientific and technique revolution and the implementation of its results in every day life require not only new occupations/professions, but also new skills and perspectives in practising them. The standardisation of the activities/tasks deployed at the workplace was the answer of the issues. The occupational standards became an instrument of training providers in order to transfer knowledge, skills and attitude needed. Around these standards new concepts have been developed and the core of them is competence. The European Parliament Council involved in this matter highlighting that "the development and recognition of citizens' knowledge, skills and competence are crucial for the development of individuals, competitiveness, employment and social cohesion in the Community" (Official Journal of the European Union, 2008: 1). Moreover, the Lisbon strategy stressed the importance of a "closer cooperation in the university sector and improvement of transparency and recognition methods in the area of vocational education and training" (Official Journal of the European Union, 2008: 1). The working paper provides an analysis concerning the use of two of the concepts (competence and qualification), both in the occupational standards framework (OSs) and in educational standards framework (ESs). The author focuses on underlining the actual differences between the two concepts within OSs and ESs. [The author was part of three teams that have designed occupational and qualification standards, including two in the banking industry.] [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]