We invite you to attend the 2nd international conference on Key Competencies-Skills for Life organised in partnership with NIACE.

The challenge of ensuring that citizens and employees are equipped with the skills and competencies needed to live and work in the 21st century has never been more urgent. Demographic trends, global competition and technological advances make it imperative to raise the level of skills and ensure that these are maintained in line with rapid evolutions in today’s knowledge society.

The first International Conference was held at City University, London in July 2007. Research institutes, universities, consulting companies, technology solutions suppliers, adult education institutes, international and national government departments, schools, colleges, industry, accrediting bodies and trade unions, were represented by delegates from 21 countries. Participants reported a high level of satisfaction with the event, and a desire to continue international co-operation in this vital area.

Key questions and issues arising included:

• Can we agree a ‘universal’ set of key competencies that are legible and transferable?
  • Do we distinguish between basic and key competencies or are they part of a continuum?
  • What implications does this have for how we develop and measure these competencies?
• How do we assess key competencies?
  • Integrated into mainstream assessment?
  • Separately?
• How do people make their key competencies visible?
• How do we recognise the outcomes of informal learning?
• How can technology contribute to learner autonomy and achievement
• How can we support those who support learners, whether this be the teacher/tutor or line manager/mentor?
• How do we ensure the engagement of employers and worker representatives in the lifelong acquisition and maintenance of key competencies
• How can we ensure that policies value the culture and contribution of individuals?
• How do we support the development of those working in micro-enterprises?

One of the principal conclusions of the conference was that there was not enough information about who is doing what. There is thus a need for a knowledge base and a community of practice. EIfEL will put in place a knowledge base and encourage contributions as a pre-conference activity.

Join us in London to explore these vital issues. We welcome proposals for presentations, workshops and presentation.

Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are available