Let's improve access to validation of prior learning for immigrants.

The service for the validation of prior learning (VPL) in Iceland is considered well-developed compared to many other countries we compare ourselves with. However, there are groups within our society that generally do not seek this service. Therefore, it was decided to introduce the current VPL system to a group of immigrants, examine the challenges, and propose suggestions for improvements. A total of 51 immigrants participated in the project, most of whom were Polish – they make up about 38% of immigrants in Iceland.

How?

The network of stakeholders in municipalities and at the national level needs to be improved to:

• Increase the provision of information about the Icelandic education system to immigrants. Provide certified language services systematically for immigrants in the education system and in the labour market. Language support needs to arise from a policy on Icelandic language learning, and responsibility must be linked to stakeholders. It is important to formalise the support and secure funding. This can be done, among other things, by securing the role of VPL within the Action Plan on Immigrant Affairs for the years 2020-2024.

Develop and/or adapt tools used in skills assessment by:

• Taking a stance on the existing tools with regard to languages. A major effort is needed in training interpreters in the field of VPL, with a special emphasis on the interpreters' professional knowledge of trades. Review quality criteria and processes with regard to equality.

Create common criteria for transferable skills for diverse target groups by:

• Finding ways and creating value for the continued development of VPL in general employability skills.

Strengthen skills development for study and career counsellors and others involved in VPL by:

• Providing additional training for study and career counsellors and others on the implementation of VPL for immigrants, and ensuring that interpreters receive appropriate training to guarantee the quality of VPL for immigrants.

Improve access to and information about the services and support available in the field of VPL by:

• Formalising the cooperation of stakeholders and establishing a sustainable network for continued development. Ensure that immigrants have real access to VPL by defining ways to reach this group. A solution must be found for how to work with issues related to language use in the education system and in the labour market.

Policy-making involves review. A policy must be built on knowledge, diligent work methods, broad-mindedness, and innovation. The implementation must include resources, milestones, and review. But first and foremost, the policy must be based on needs; otherwise, there is a risk that funds and time will be poorly spent, to no one's benefit. In the VISKA project, challenges related to the implementation of VPL for immigrants were highlighted, and ways to solve them were sought within the project. Much remains unresolved. Information about pathways in adult education for immigrants must be greatly enhanced, access to education systems must be provided, and dropouts must be prevented. The VPL system meets the needs of those who have a good command of Icelandic but excludes most others who, nevertheless, have a right to this service according to the Act on Continuing Education.

By increasing equal opportunities for people to undergo VPL, the skills of people with an immigrant background will become visible for the benefit of society. But when?

Author: Helen Gray