Glossary

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are statements of what a learner is expected to know, understand and be able to do at the end of a period of learning. 

• Bologna Follow-Up Group, Framework for Qualifications of the European Higher Education Area, 2005, p. 29

Level

Level refers to the formally designated location of a programme in the Qualifications Framework of the European Higher Education Area. (e.g. first cycle or Bachelor's level.) They represent a series of sequential steps (a developmental continuum), expressed in terms of a range of generic outcomes, against which typical qualifications can be positioned. 

• Bologna Follow-Up Group, Framework for Qualifications of the European Higher Education Area, 2005, p. 30

Level descriptor

Level descriptors are what the name implies: descriptions of the skills and competences expected at different levels of qualifications. (The Qualifications Framework of the European Higher Education Area uses the term "cycles")
Level descriptors make explicit the learning outcomes associated with each level of qualification, and they tend to be limited to generic competences and skills. [...]
Level descriptors state what learners will typically know, understand and be able to do on the basis of a given qualification.

• Sjur Bergan, Qualifications - Introduction to a concept, 2007, p. 80.

Lifelong learning

Lifelong learning comprises learning at all ages (from pre-primary to post–retirement) and in all contexts, i.e. including formal, non-formal or informal settings.

• European Commission, An updated strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training, 2008, p. 6

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