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New opportunities are opening up for people in work who want to gain qualifications, because of the flexible credit system that has been established. In his breakout session, Dr Jon Talbot of the University of Chester explained how this worked and new methods of delivering qualifications that will increase choice even further. In the UK almost all formal learning is credit rated and located within a National Qualification Framework (NQF) 1 – 8. Level 8 is doctoral, while 4, 5 and 6 equate to years 1, 2 and 3 of a bachelor degree respectively. A typical bachelor degree is made up of 360 credits. The system means that individuals can take credits with them and these can count towards future qualifications. UK modules are also recognised by other countries in Europe through a Credit Transfer System. This more flexible system has not compromised standards at all. Credit modules must have nationally-agreed learning outcomes. UK universities have very rigorous quality assurance processes which include second marking in specific circumstances (for example, in the case of firsts or fails), internal auditing, independent external examiners and inspections by the Quality Assurance Agency. However, despite the greater opportunities, there are still obstacles for those who are in full-time employment and who are not in a position to move to another part of the country to undertake a course. While distance learning is available, and there are soon likely to be more providers, there are limitations on the types and levels of programmes available. The University of Chester has developed an innovative solution through its Work-Based and Integrative Studies Framework. This has grown by 20% per annum since 1998, and is now working with more than 1,000 students who are all adults in work from a wide variety of industries and occupations. Students can decide on content and at what level they want to study, as well as when they want to start, finish and their rate of progress. A course of study can be completely tailored to meet the needs of an individual – the only limitations relate to whether there is anyone working in or for the University who is able to provide tuition and support relating to the desired subject. There is a very strong emphasis on learning through doing, that is immediately integrating learning with the types of things the individual will be required to do in the workplace. Students are able to study at a distance with individual tuition backed up e-learning. The majority of assessment is undertaken through written assignments. Apart from individual applications, the scheme also works through accreditation of in-house training and partnerships with training organisations and employers. One of the strengths of the initiative is that it operates just as rigorous standards as any more traditional method of academic study. When carrying out its audit, the Quality Assurance Agency spent more time assessing this programme than all the other departments put together, principally because of its completely non-standard approach. However, the Agency's conclusion was that this was one of the great strengths of the University.
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