Abstract:

Intellectual capital is the main source of competitiveness in a global economy. Improving its quality is one of the conditions ensuring socio-economic growth. The strategic government documents of Poland point to the significant challenge of developing intellectual capital and implementing the strategy of “lifelong learning", whose tool will be the qualifications framework. Developing the national qualifications system, especially the implementation of the Polish Qualifications Framework (PQF) leading to the better integration of the entire system, will be one of the more important modernisation activities allowing Poland to achieve progress more quickly.

This paper presents the concept of implementing the Polish Qualifications Framework, as well as the process and progress in the work of developing new systemic solutions.

A characteristic feature of the current qualifications system in Poland is the relatively high autonomy of its specific subsystems. Qualifications awarded in various sectors do not necessarily relate to each other, and it is also rare that a previously acquired qualification in one sector is taken into consideration when working towards a subsequent qualification in another sector. The recognition and certification of competencies acquired outside of formal education is inconsistent. There is no comprehensive and generally accessible source of information on available qualifications.
The way the "qualifications market" currently functions in Poland affects attitudes towards lifelong learning. As a result, compared to other European Union countries, Poland has very high rates of enrolment (in schools and universities), and a very low proportion of adults continuing their learning after they finish school. Lifelong indicator in is one of the lowest in the EU - 5% of persons between ages 25 and 64 updates or attains new competencies, whereas the EU average is nearly 9% - for example, 30% in Denmark and over 20% in Finland and Sweden.

Modernising the national qualifications system by implementing the Polish Qualifications Framework may lead to the greater integration of this system.

Change is already taking place with the gradual implementation of adapted, existing solutions to a system based on learning outcomes. Since 2008, documents on the core curricula in Polish formal education are defining expected learning outcomes. In 2011, a far-reaching modernisation of vocational education began, which aims to base the entire system to a greater extent than ever before on descriptions of learning outcomes. In higher education, elements of a modern qualifications system were introduced in accordance with the guidelines of the Bologna Process, in which Poland has been participating since 1999. The following mechanisms have been introduced: a three-cycle system of studies, the ECTS system, the required issuance of the Diploma Supplement, and a universally mandatory accreditation system. In Poland, work on the qualifications framework for higher education started in 2006. In 2011, amendments to the Law on Higher Education entered into force, enabling National Qualifications Framework for Higher Education to be implemented.

Implementing the PQF will close the cycle of reforms taking place in the institutions of formal general, vocational and higher education, and at the same time will provide the impetus for lifelong learning policies in Poland.

Keywords:

Lifelong learning, qualifications framework, qualifications system.