Confirmation by a competent body that learning outcomes (knowledge, skills and/or competences) acquired by an individual in a formal, non-formal or informal setting have been assessed against predefined criteria and are compliant with the requirements of a validation standard. Validation typically leads to certification.
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Process of confirmation by an authorised body that an individual has acquired learning outcomes measured against a relevant standard. Validation consists of four distinct phases:
identification through dialogue of particular experiences of an individual;
documentation to make visible the individual’s experiences;
formal assessment of these experiences; and
certification of the results of the assessment which may lead to a partial or full qualification.