ReportCompetence Framework_DEF_19.06.2018

The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. [Project Number: 2017-1-SK01-KA204-035385] According to CEDEFOP (2011), “skill” is the knowledge and experience a person has and it is crucial in order to accomplish a physical or mental task. In this context, basic skills are all skills that are required for a person to be able to live in the modern society, for example comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and mathematics (CEDEFOP, 2011). The national studies consulted so far define "low skilled" taking into account the level of educational attainment - individuals whose schooling is below any level of secondary education. Based on applied adult education policies, basic skills are usually conceived (international and European level) as literacy, numeric and technology/computer skills. Also, the use of foreign languages (beyond mother tongue) is the fourth basic skill. In many countries the concept of basic skills is institutionalized and clearly defined. Indeed, in several cases, basic skills are mapped to specific reference levels of the National Qualifications Framework (Enoros Consulting, 2015; EOCD, n.d.). However, at a policy level in Cyprus, there is not a commonly accepted definition of basic skills, neither a definition of low skilled adults, indicating that this term is dynamic and adapts to the changing circumstances and demands of modern societies (Enoros Consulting, 2015; EOCD, n.d.). Therefore, for the purpose of this Erasmus+ Project entitled ‘Qualify’ the consortium will adopt the understanding that low-qualify adults are people above the age of 18 who attended only the secondary education and do not have a degree. Although we use this definition for the desk top research and to approach the interviews, the consortium will be open to a flexible and inclusive approach in the Project, and thus adults who would like to take part, develop and improve their skills will be able to participate. 2.1.3. UNITED KINGDOM In the UK the definition of low skilled and low educated adults relates to those who have not achieved level 2 in English Literacy and Maths. Many employers also now look for level 2 in ICT. “Around 15 per cent, or 5.1 million adults in England, can be described as 'functionally illiterate.' They would not pass an English GCSE and have literacy levels at or below those expected of an 11-year-old. ”https://literacytrust.org.uk/parents-and-families/adult-literacy/ 2.1.4. SPAIN According to Cedefop a low skilled adult is someone between 24 and 65 who counts only with basic academic qualification. Nevertheless, this definition is not appropriate for all European countries and we do need to take into account the following: