TVETipedia Glossary

Formal learning

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Formal learning takes place in education and training institutions, is recognised by relevant national authorities and leads to diplomas and qualifications. Formal learning is structured according to educational arrangements such as curricula, qualifications and teaching-learning requirements.

Source:
UIL, UNESCO GUIDELINES for the Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of the Outcomes of Non-formal and Informal Learning, 2012
UIL, UNESCO GUIDELINES for the Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of the Outcomes of Non-formal and Informal Learning, 2012
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The UNESCO Guidelines for the Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of the Outcomes of Non-formal and Informal Learning were developed to facilitate recognition, validation and accreditation (RVA) of all learning outcomes, particularly those of non-formal and informal learning. UNESCO Member States also committed themselves to establishing recognition frameworks to develop and improve RVA principles and mechanisms.

Formal learning refers to a type of learning program in which the goals and objectives are defined by the training department, instructional designer and/or instructor. It is also called structured learning or synchronous learning.

Source:
trainingindustry.com, Training industry glossary (website, accessed 12/2022)

Acquisition of knowledge, know-how, information, values, skills and competences in an organised and structured environment in terms of learning objectives, time or resources (e.g. an education or training institution or a company).

Source:
Cedefop, Glossary. Terminology of European education and training policy, (last accessed 10/2024)
Cedefop, Glossary. Terminology of European education and training policy, (last accessed 10/2024)
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This revised and expanded multilingual glossary defines 430 key terms used in European education and training policy. Building on the Terminology of European education and training policy – A selection of 130 key terms, published in 2014, this latest version, which draws on the experiences of Cedefop’s experts, gives new definitions and covers the latest European Union policy priorities, particularly on skills intelligence and employment.
Terms are provided in 8 languages: German, Greek, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch and Portuguese. Definitions are available in English, German and French.

Learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction which is generally recognised by the attainment of a formal qualification or award (for example, a certificate, diploma or degree).

Source:
NCVER (Australia), VOCEDplus: Glossary of VET, (accessed 05/2026)
NCVER (Australia), VOCEDplus: Glossary of VET, (accessed 05/2026)
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This glossary is a compilation of Australian vocational education and training (VET) terms and acronyms. It includes both current and historical terms, concepts, acronyms and other abbreviations found in Australian VET research, policy and data.

Learning that occurs in an organised and structured education and training environment and that is explicitly designated as such.

Source:
SAQA (South Africa), TVET Standard Glossary of Terms, 2013
SAQA (South Africa), TVET Standard Glossary of Terms, 2013
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This standard glossary of terms defines and clarifies the core terminology relating to the development and implementation of the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
As a direct result of the many changes in the education and training landscape between 1995 and 2013, a wide range of terminology and definitions have emerged, often causing confusion and leading to ambiguity in the system. This glossary has been developed to bring consistency to the use of terminology in the broader education and training context, including legislation, policy and everyday usage by the public.