A national qualifications framework (NQF) is a set of principles and rules, consisting of levels, used to define, classify and compare qualifications that exist in a country according to established criteria.
Establishing a national qualifications framework that will improve the quality of the education and training system and strengthen the relationship between employment and education is among the priority needs of Turkey. For this reason, intensive efforts have been made to prepare the Turkish Qualifications Framework, which will support the education and training needs of all individuals in the society with lifelong learning opportunities, ensure the development of the qualifications required by the labor market and be compatible with the European Qualifications Framework.
In this sense, the Turkish Qualifications Framework will ensure that all qualifications acquired in institutions and organizations where education and training are received such as schools, universities, training centers, research centers, workplaces or as a result of independent learning will be associated in integrity and will increase the participation of individuals in lifelong learning. The Turkish Qualifications Framework was prepared by the National Qualifications Framework Preparation Commission consisting of representatives of the Ministry of National Education, Higher Education Council and Vocational Qualifications Authority under the coordination of the Vocational Qualifications Authority and technical working groups including social partners and finalized by taking the opinions and suggestions of all relevant institutions and organizations, local and international subject matter experts.
In this framework, key competencies are defined as follows:
1. Communication in the mother tongue: Express and interpret concepts, thoughts, ideas, feelings and phenomena both orally and in writing (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and interact linguistically appropriately and creatively in all kinds of social and cultural contexts such as education and training, workplace, home and leisure.
2. Communication in foreign languages: It mostly shares the basic skill dimensions of communication in the first language and is based on the ability to understand, express and interpret feelings, thoughts, facts and ideas both orally and in writing in a range of appropriate social and cultural contexts, such as education, training, workplace, home and leisure, according to one's wishes and needs. Communication in foreign languages also requires skills of mediation and intercultural understanding. An individual's level of proficiency will vary across different languages, with the dimensions of listening, speaking, reading and writing depending on the individual's social and cultural background, environment, needs and interests.
3. Mathematical competence and core competencies in science/technology: Mathematical competence is the development and application of mathematical thinking to solve a range of problems encountered in everyday life. Emphasis is placed on the processes, activities and knowledge that build on a sound arithmetic ability. Mathematical competence includes the ability and willingness to use mathematical modes of thinking and presentation to varying degrees. Competence in science refers to the ability and desire to utilize the body of knowledge and methodology for explaining the natural world in order to define questions and produce evidence-based conclusions. Competence in technology is seen as the application of knowledge and methodology in response to perceived human wants and needs. Competence in science and technology encompasses the ability to understand the changes resulting from human activities and the responsibilities of each individual as a citizen.
4. Digital competence: It covers the safe and critical use of information society technologies for work, daily life and communication. This competence is underpinned by basic skills in information and communication technology, such as access to information and the use of computers to evaluate, store, produce, present and exchange information, as well as participating and communicating in shared networks through the Internet.
5. Learning to learn: The ability to pursue and persist in learning in order to organize one's own learning individually or in groups, including effective time and information management. This competence includes the individual's awareness of learning needs and processes by recognizing existing opportunities and the ability to cope with difficulties for a successful learning action. This competence means acquiring, processing and adapting new knowledge and skills as well as seeking and benefiting from guidance. Learning to learn mobilizes learners to build on prior learning and life experiences in order to use and apply knowledge and skills in a variety of contexts such as home, workplace, education and training settings. Motivation and confidence are crucial for an individual's competence.
6. Social and civic competencies: These competencies include personal, interpersonal and intercultural competencies and encompass all forms of behavior that enable individuals to participate effectively and constructively in social and working life, especially in increasingly diverse societies, and to resolve conflicts when necessary. Civic competence, on the other hand, equips individuals to participate fully in civilized life based on knowledge of social and political concepts and structures and a commitment to democratic and active participation.
7. Initiative and entrepreneurship: It refers to an individual's ability to transform thoughts into action. It includes creativity, innovation and risk-taking, as well as the ability to plan and manage projects to achieve goals. This competence supports everyone, not only at home and in the community, but also in the workplace, so that they can be aware of the context and circumstances of their work and seize business opportunities; it is also a foundation for the more specific knowledge and skills needed by those who engage in or contribute to social or commercial activities. It includes awareness of ethical values and promotion of good governance.
8. Cultural awareness and expression: Recognizing the importance of creative expression of views, experiences and feelings through the use of various mass media, including music, performing arts, literature and visual arts.
The key competencies are all interrelated and each focuses on critical thinking, creativity, initiative, problem solving, risk assessment, decision making and constructive management of emotions.
Sources:
Turkish Qualifications Framework. Vocational Qualifications Authority