Uznawanie kwalifikacji w kontekście uczenia się przez całe życie. Ustalenia – doświadczenia – dylematy

In the article the author describes the issue of recognition of qualifications in the context of learning throughout life, in which, as the synergy of formal, non-formal and informal learning, the recognition of knowledge, skills and competences acquired by various routes is of particular importance because it motivates and justifies making educational efforts at different stages of life. The conclusion is that from the political and educational point of view the formal recognition of the effects of non-formal and informal learning saves time and money and expands the possibilities of individuals in the labour market. Given the personal and social benefits, we should strive to create a system for the recognition /validation of learning outcomes regardless of when, where and how such effects have been achieved. The author analyzes Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Poland and abroad. She discusses in detail the RPL in Polish higher education. The author is of the opinion that ongoing discussions on creating a system of validation focus on the manner of its implementation and operation. Less commonly, they are concerned with the validity of such activities but they rather concentrate on the search for solutions that will give the answer how the system should look like in order to be effective, accessible and of high quality. A well-functioning quality assurance system allows one to build the confidence in the system. Creating such system requires co-operation, exchange of experiences, it as well as clear qualification standards and frameworks, and a well-developed assessment methods based on competence.