Validation of non‐formal and informal learning to support disadvantaged learners: Alternative assessments

The European Union has set the goal to make lifelong learning a reality for more people through the creation of flexible pathways to improve access to higher levels of education and employment. Validation of non-formal and informal learning (VNFIL), which is intended to make learning from everyday work and life visible, is an important means to this goal. Nevertheless, in many countries take-up of VNFIL remains low among disadvantaged groups. While a variety of factors, such as outreach and accessibility of VNFIL, may affect take-up, the VNFIL approach and quality of assessment are important factors. This article describes alternative VNFIL assessment approaches identified in Innoval (2016–2018), an Erasmus+ project focused on supporting and empowering disadvantaged learners as they pursue further education, employment and/or certification.