REPORT on the proposal for a recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of a European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training
11.11.2008 - (COM(2008)0179 – C6‑0163/2008 – 2008/0069(COD)) - ***I
Committee on Employment and Social Affairs
Rapporteur: Jan Andersson
Rapporteur for Opinion (*):
Ramona Nicole Manescu, Committee on Culture and Education
(*) Associated committee – Rule 47 of the Rules of Procedure
DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION
on the proposal for a recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of a European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training
(COM(2008)0179 – C6‑0163/2008 – 2008/0069(COD))
(Codecision procedure: first reading)
The European Parliament,
– having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2008)0179),
– having regard to Article 251(2) and Articles 149(4) and 150(4) of the EC Treaty, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C6‑0163/2008),
– having regard to Rule 51 of its Rules of Procedure,
– having regard to the report of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs and the opinion of the Committee on Culture and Education (A6‑0438/2008),
1. Approves the Commission proposal as amended;
2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend the proposal substantially or replace it with another text;
3. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and Commission.
Amendment 1 Proposal for a recommendation Title | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of a European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training |
(Does not affect the English version.) |
Amendment 2 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 1 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(1) The transition to a knowledge-based economy (Lisbon European Council 2000) requires modernisation and continuous improvement of vocational education and training (VET) systems in response to rapid change in the economy and society, so that they can help increase employability and social inclusion and improve access to lifelong learning for all. |
(1) The transition to a knowledge-based economy (Lisbon European Council 2000) requires modernisation and continuous improvement of vocational education and training (VET) systems in response to rapid change in the economy and society, so that they can help increase employability and social inclusion and improve access to lifelong learning for all, including disadvantaged people. |
Justification | |
Combating all forms of discrimination in the European Union is vital. | |
Amendment 3 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 4 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(4) Following the Council Resolution on the Promotion of Enhanced European Cooperation in VET (‘The Copenhagen process’), and as an outcome of subsequent cooperative work between the Commission, the Member States, social partners, the EEA – EFTA and the candidate countries on the Quality Assurance priority, a Common Quality Assurance Framework (hereinafter "CQAF") has been developed, taking account of existing experience and 'good practice' in the different participating countries. |
(4) Following the Council Resolution of 19 December 2002 on the promotion of enhanced European cooperation in VET (‘The Copenhagen process’), and as an outcome of subsequent cooperative work between the Commission, the Member States, social partners, the EEA – EFTA and the candidate countries on the Quality Assurance priority, a Common Quality Assurance Framework (hereinafter "CQAF") has been developed, taking account of existing experience and 'good practice' in the different participating countries. |
Amendment 4 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 5 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(5) According to the joint interim report of the Council and the Commission to the European Council, on the Education and Training 2010 Work Programme (2004), "the CQAF for VET" (as part of the follow-up to the Copenhagen process) and the "development of an agreed set of standards, procedures and guidelines for quality assurance" (in conjunction with the Bologna process and as part of the work programme on the objectives of education and training systems) should be top priorities for Europe". |
(5) According to the 2004 joint interim report of the Council and the Commission to the European Council on the Education and Training 2010 Work Programme, "the CQAF for VET" (as part of the follow-up to the Copenhagen Declaration) and the "development of an agreed set of standards, procedures and guidelines for quality assurance" (in conjunction with the Bologna process and as part of the work programme on the objectives of education and training systems) should be top priorities for Europe". |
Amendment 5 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 7 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(7) The establishment of the European Network on Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training (hereinafter "ENQA-VET") provides a European platform that allows for appropriate follow-up to the Council Conclusions of 2004 and the Helsinki Communiqué, and facilitates sustainable cooperation across countries. |
(7) The European Network for Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training provided a European platform that made possible appropriate follow-up to the Council Conclusions of 2004 and the Helsinki Communiqué, and facilitated sustainable cooperation between countries. |
Amendment 6 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 8 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(8) In 2006, the Helsinki Communiqué underlined the need to further develop and implement common European tools specifically aimed at VET, by (…) drawing on the principles underlying a CQAF, as referred to in the May 2004 Council Conclusions on quality assurance in VET, in order to promote a culture of quality improvement and wider participation in the ENQA-VET network. |
(8) In 2006, the Helsinki Communiqué underlined the need to further develop and implement common European tools specifically aimed at VET, by (…) drawing on the principles underlying a CQAF, as referred to in the May 2004 Council Conclusions on quality assurance in VET, in order to promote a culture of quality improvement and wider participation in the European Network for Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training. |
Amendment 7 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 11 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(11) The Framework should be applied at both VET system and provider levels. It provides a systemic approach to quality, covering and inter-relating the relevant levels and actors and it should give strong emphasis to monitoring and improving quality, combining internal and external evaluation, review and processes for improvement, supported by measurement. The Framework should be a basis for further development through cooperation at European, national, regional and local levels. |
(11) The Framework should be applied at the VET system, provider and qualification levels. It provides a systemic approach to quality, covering and inter-relating the relevant levels and actors. The Framework should give strong emphasis to monitoring and improving quality by combining internal and external evaluation, review and processes for improvement, supported by measurement and qualitative analysis. The Framework should be a basis for further development through cooperation at European, national, regional and local levels. |
Amendment 8 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 12 a (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(12a) This Recommendation provides a framework for the identification, support and exchange of best practices not only at national but also at local and regional levels in all relevant networks including the European Network for Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training. |
Amendment 9 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 13 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(13) This Recommendation should take into account the common "Principles for Quality Assurance in Education and Training" that are included in Annex 3 to the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of the European Qualifications Framework for lifelong learning (hereinafter EQF) The Framework should therefore support the implementation of the EQF. It should also support the implementation of other European instruments, such as the European Credit System for VET (hereinafter ECVET), and the Common European Principles for the identification and validation of non-formal and informal learning. |
(13) This Recommendation takes into account the common "Principles for Quality Assurance in Education and Training" that are included in Annex 3 to the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of the European Qualifications Framework for lifelong learning (hereinafter EQF). The Framework should therefore support the implementation of the EQF, in particular the quality of the certification of learning outcomes. It should also support the implementation of other European instruments, such as the European Credit System for VET (hereinafter ECVET), and the Common European Principles for the identification and validation of non-formal and informal learning. |
Amendment 10 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 14 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(14) This Recommendation conforms to the principle of subsidiarity referred to in Article 5 of the Treaty insofar as its objective is to support and supplement Member States’ action by facilitating further cooperation between them to increase transparency of VET and to promote mobility and lifelong learning. |
(14) Given its non binding nature, this Recommendation conforms to the principle of subsidiarity referred to in Article 5 of the Treaty insofar as its objective is to support and supplement Member States’ action by facilitating further cooperation between them to increase transparency of VET and to promote mobility and lifelong learning. It should be implemented in accordance with national legislation and practice. This Recommendation conforms to the principle of proportionality referred to in that Article because it does not replace or define national quality assurance systems. The Framework does not prescribe a particular quality system or approach, but provides common principles, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and indicators that may help in assessing and improving existing systems and provision. |
Amendment 11 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 15 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(15) This Recommendation conforms to the principle of proportionality referred to in that Article because it does not replace or define national quality assurance systems. The Framework does not prescribe a particular quality system or approach, but provides common principles, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and indicators that may help to assess and improve existing systems and provision. |
(15) The reference indicators proposed in Annex 2 to this Recommendation are intended to support the evaluation and quality improvement of VET systems and/or providers in accordance with national legislation and practice, and to serve as a "toolbox" from which the various users may choose the indicators they consider most relevant to the requirements of their particular quality assurance system. In terms of their nature and purpose, they should be distinguished from the indicators and benchmarks referred to in the Council conclusions of 25 May 2007 on a coherent framework of indicators and benchmarks for monitoring progress towards the Lisbon objectives in education and training*. |
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______________ * OJ C 311, 21.12.2007, p. 13. |
Amendment 12 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 15 a (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(15a) The European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, if used and further developed by the Member States, could help them to further improve and develop their VET systems, support lifelong learning strategies, further European labour market integration and the implementation of the EQF and promote a culture of quality improvement at all levels, while respecting the rich diversity of national education systems. |
Amendment 13 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 15 b (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(15b) This Recommendation should contribute to modernising education and training systems, improving the effectiveness of training by seeking to ensure that people do not leave without qualifications, improving the interrelationship of education, training and employment, building bridges between formal, non-formal and informal learning and expanding the awarding of qualifications on the basis of experience acquired. |
Amendment 14 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 1 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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1. use and further develop the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and reference indicators as set out in Annexes 1 and 2, to further improve, reform and develop their VET systems, support lifelong learning strategies and the implementation of the EQF and promote a culture of quality improvement at all levels; |
1. use and further develop the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and reference indicators as set out and further described in Annexes 1 and 2, to further improve and develop their VET systems, support lifelong learning strategies and the implementation of the EQF and of the European Quality Charter for Mobility, and promote a culture of quality improvement and innovation at all levels. Extra emphasis should be placed on the transition from vocational education and training to higher education; |
Amendment 15 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 2 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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2. devise a national approach for implementing the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework not later than 2010, involving the social partners and all other relevant stakeholders in accordance with national legislation and practice. This should include the identification of a number of common indicators to assess and monitor progress and to support review; |
2. each devise, not later than 24 months after the adoption of this Recommendation, an approach aimed at improving quality assurance systems at national level, where appropriate, and making best use of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, involving the social partners, regional and local governments, and all other relevant stakeholders in accordance with national legislation and practice. |
Amendment 16 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 3 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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3. participate actively in the ENQA-VET as a basis for further development of common principles, reference criteria and indicators, guidelines and tools for quality improvement in VET at national, regional and local levels, as appropriate; |
3. participate actively in the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework network as a basis for further development of common principles, reference criteria and indicators, guidelines and tools for quality improvement in VET at national, regional and local levels, as appropriate; |
Amendment 17 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 4 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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4. designate a Quality Assurance National Reference Point (hereinafter QANRP) for VET that brings together existing relevant bodies and involves the social partners and all stakeholders concerned at national and regional levels, in order to ensure the follow-up of initiatives and efficient dissemination of information. The reference points should: |
4. establish, where this does not already exist, a Quality Assurance National Reference Point for VET that is linked to the particular structures and requirements of each Member State and that in respect of national traditions brings together existing relevant bodies and involves the social partners and all stakeholders concerned at national and regional levels, in order to ensure the follow-up of initiatives. The reference points should: |
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– keep a wide range of stakeholders informed about the European Network's activities; |
– keep a wide range of stakeholders informed about the activities of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework network referred to in paragraph 3; |
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– provide active support to the implementation of the European Network's Work Programme; |
– provide active support to the implementation of the work programme of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework network; |
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– take concrete initiatives to promote further development of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework in the national context. |
– take concrete initiatives to promote further development of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework in the national context; |
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– support self-evaluation as a complementary and effective means of quality assurance which allows the measurement of success and the identification of areas for improvement in respect of the implementation of the European Network's Work Programme; |
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– ensure that information is disseminated to stakeholders effectively; |
Amendment 18 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 5 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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5. undertake a review of the implementation process every three years. The national reviews will contribute to a European review to be organised by the Commission. |
5. undertake a review of the implementation process every four years –such review to be incorporated into alternate national progress reports drawn up within the context of the future strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training – on the basis of reference criteria to be defined under the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework network in cooperation with the Commission and the Member States. |
Amendment 19 Proposal for a recommendation Intention 2 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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2. develop the role of ENQAVET in contributing to policy development in this area through concrete proposals and initiatives; |
2. promote and participate together with the Member States in the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework network, contributing to policy development in this area through concrete proposals and initiatives, as needed; |
Amendment 20 Proposal for a recommendation Intention 3 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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3. monitor the action taken by the Member States in response to this Recommendation and report, three years after its adoption, to the European Parliament and the Council on the experience gained and implications for the future, including, if necessary, a review of this Recommendation. |
3. ensure follow-up to the implementation of this Recommendation by presenting a report every four years to the European Parliament, the Council and the local and regional governments on the experience gained and implications for the future, including, if necessary, a review of this Recommendation conducted in cooperation with the Member States and involving the various stakeholders. |
Amendment 21 Proposal for a recommendation Intention 3 a (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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3a. undertake, on the basis of the report and in cooperation with the Member States, an evaluation of the implementation of this Recommendation and, if necessary, its revision. |
Amendment 22 Proposal for a recommendation Annex I (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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INTRODUCTION TO THE ANNEXES |
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This Recommendation proposes the adoption of a VET quality assurance and improvement cycle (planning, implementation, evaluation/assessment, review or revision) based on a selection of quality criteria, descriptors and indicators applicable to quality management at the level of both systems and training providers. The aim is not to introduce new standards, but to support Member States' efforts, whilst preserving the diversity of their approaches. |
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The Quality Framework should be regarded rather as a "toolbox", from which the various users may choose those descriptors and indicators they consider most relevant to the requirements of their particular quality assurance system. |
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The proposed descriptors (Annex 1) and indicators (Annex 2) are provided for guidance only and may be selected and applied by users of the Quality Assurance Reference Framework in accordance with all or part of their requirements and existing settings. |
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They may be applied to initial vocational training (IVT) and/or continuous vocational training (CVT), depending on the relevant individual characteristics of each Member State's VET system and the type of VET providers. |
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They are to be used on a purely voluntary basis, taking account of their potential added value and in accordance with national legislation and practice. They should be considered neither as benchmarks, nor as a means of reporting on, or drawing comparisons between, the quality and efficiency of different national systems. The responsibility for monitoring the quality of these systems remains entirely with the Member States. |
Amendment 23 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 1 – introductory part | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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This annex provides common quality criteria and indicative descriptors to support Member States, as appropriate, when implementing the Framework. |
This annex proposes common quality criteria and indicative descriptors to support Member States, as they deem appropriate, when implementing the Framework. |
Amendment 24 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 1 – Quality Criteria: Planning reflects a strategic vision shared by the relevant stakeholders and includes explicit goals/objectives, actions and indicators Indicative descriptors at VET provider level - sentence 8 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Providers have an explicit and transparent learner charter in place and a quality system is put in place |
Providers have an explicit and transparent quality system in place |
Amendment 25 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 1 – Quality Criteria: Evaluation of outcomes and processes is regularly carried out and supported by measurement | |
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Indicative descriptors at system level |
Indicative descriptors at VET provider level |
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A methodology for evaluation is devised, covering internal and external evaluation |
Self-assessment/self-evaluation is periodically carried out under national and regional regulations/frameworks or at the initiative of VET providers |
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Stakeholder involvement in the monitoring and evaluation process is agreed and clearly described |
Evaluation and review covers processes and results/outcomes of education including the assessment of client satisfaction as well as staff performance |
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The national/regional standards and processes for improving and assuring quality are relevant and proportionate to the needs of the sector |
Evaluation and review includes adequate and effective mechanisms to involve internal and external stakeholders, such as managers, teachers, students, parents, employers, social partners and local authorities |
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Systems are subject to self-evaluation and external review |
Benchmarking and comparative indicators are used for mutual learning and performance improvement |
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Early warning systems are implemented |
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Performance indicators are applied |
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Relevant, regular and coherent data collection takes place, in order to measure success and identify areas for improvement. Appropriate data collection methodologies are devised, e.g. questionnaires and indicators/metrics |
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Amendment | |
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Indicative descriptors at system level |
Indicative descriptors at VET provider level |
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A methodology for evaluation is devised, covering internal and external evaluation |
Self-assessment/self-evaluation is periodically carried out under national and regional regulations/frameworks or at the initiative of VET providers |
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Stakeholder involvement in the monitoring and evaluation process is agreed and clearly described |
Evaluation and review covers processes and results/outcomes of education including the assessment of learner satisfaction as well as staff performance and satisfaction |
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The national/regional standards and processes for improving and assuring quality are relevant and proportionate to the needs of the sector |
Evaluation and review includes adequate and effective mechanisms to involve internal and external stakeholders |
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Systems are subject to self-evaluation, internal and external review, as appropriate |
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Early warning systems are implemented |
Early warning systems are implemented |
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Performance indicators are applied |
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Relevant, regular and coherent data collection takes place, in order to measure success and identify areas for improvement. Appropriate data collection methodologies are devised, e.g. questionnaires and indicators/metrics |
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Amendment 26 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 1 - Quality Criteria: Review – Indicative descriptors at system level – sentence 2 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Processes are continuously reviewed and action plans for change devised. Systems are constantly being developed |
Processes are regularly reviewed and action plans for change devised. Systems are adjusted accordingly |
Amendment 27 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 1 - Quality Criteria: Review – Indicative descriptors at system level – sentence 3 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Benchmarking to support mutual learning between VET providers is encouraged and supported |
deleted |
Amendment 28 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 1 – Quality Criteria: Review - Indicative descriptors at VET provider level - sentence 1 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Learners' feedback on their learning environment and experience is gathered and used to inform further actions |
Learners' feedback is gathered on their individual learning experience and on the learning and teaching environment. Together with teachers´ feedback this is used to inform further actions |
Amendment 29 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Title and introductory part | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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A REFERENCE SET OF QUALITY INDICATORS FOR VET |
A REFERENCE SET OF SELECTED QUALITY INDICATORS FOR ASSESSING QUALITY IN VET |
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This annex provides a comprehensive set of indicators to support the evaluation, monitoring and quality improvement of VET systems and/or providers. The set of indicators will be further developed through European cooperation on a bilateral and/or multilateral basis, building on European data and national registers. |
This annex proposes a comprehensive set of selected quality indicators which can be used to support the evaluation and quality improvement of VET systems and/or providers. The set of indicators will be further developed through European cooperation on a bilateral and/or multilateral basis, building on European data national registers. |
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In terms of their nature and purpose, they should be distinguished from the indicators and benchmarks referred to in the Council conclusions of 25 May 2007 on a coherent framework of indicators and benchmarks for monitoring progress towards the Lisbon objectives in education and training*. |
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Furthermore, the table of indicators does not include aggregated indicators at national level in cases where these do not exist or are difficult to obtain. The aggregation of such indicators at national level can be carried out at a later stage on the basis of a joint agreement between the Member States, the Commission and the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework network. |
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* OJ C 311, 21.12.2007, p. 13 |
Amendment 30 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Column "Applicable to" | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Column deleted |
Amendment 31 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator No 3 – Policy Rationale – subparagraph 2 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Target support to increase access to VET, including socially disadvantaged groups |
Target support to increase access to VET, including disadvantaged groups |
Amendment 32 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator No 4 – subparagraph 2 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Number of successfully completed/abandoned VET programmes, according to the type of programme and the individual criteria. |
Number of persons having successfully completed/abandoned VET programmes, according to the type of programme and the individual criteria. |
Amendment 33 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2– Indicator No 4 – Policy Rationale – subparagraph 4 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Support adapted training provision, including for socially disadvantaged groups |
Support adapted training provision, including disadvantaged groups |
Amendment 34 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator No 5 – point a) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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a) destination of VET learners in 6-12-36 months after completion of training, according to the type of programme and the individual criteria; |
a) destination of VET learners at some point in time after completion of training, according to the type of programme and the individual criteria and encouraging worker mobility; |
Amendment 35 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator No 5 – point b) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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b) share of employed learners in 6-12-36 months after completion of training, according to the type of programme and the individual criteria. |
b) share of employed learners at some point in time after completion of training, according to the type of programme and the individual criteria. |
Amendment 36 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator 5 – Policy Rationale – subparagraph 3 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Support adapted training provision, including socially disadvantaged groups |
Support adapted training provision, including disadvantaged groups |
Amendment 37 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator 6 – Policy Rationale – subparagraph 3 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Support adapted training provision, including socially disadvantaged groups |
Support adapted training provision, including disadvantaged groups |
Amendment 38 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator 8 – Policy Rationale – subparagraphs 2 and 3 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Support access to VET for socially disadvantaged groups |
Support access to VET for disadvantaged groups |
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Support adapted training provision for socially disadvantaged groups |
Support adapted training provision for disadvantaged groups |
Amendment 39 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator 9 - point b) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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b) evidence of their usefulness. |
b) evidence of their effectiveness. |
Amendment 40 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator 10 - point b) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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b) evidence of their usefulness. |
b) evidence of their effectiveness. |
Amendment 41 Proposal for a recommendation Annex 2 – Indicator 10 - Policy Rationale – subparagraph 1 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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Promote access to VET, including socially disadvantaged groups |
Promote access to VET, including disadvantaged groups |
OPINION of the Committee on Culture and Education (*) (7.10.2008)
for the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs
on the proposal for a recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of a European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training
(COM(2008)0179 – C6‑0163/2008 – 2008/0069(COD))
Rapporteur (*) : Ramona Nicole Mănescu
(*) Associated committees – Rule 47 of the Rules of Procedure
SHORT JUSTIFICATION
A. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSAL
Vocational Education and Training (VET) is an essential tool in providing European citizens with the skills, knowledge and competences needed in the labour market and knowledge based society.
According to the Copenhagen Declaration, one of the main priorities that will be pursued through enhanced cooperation in VET is promoting cooperation in quality assurance with particular focus on exchange of models and methods, as well as common criteria and principles for quality in vocational education and training.
The objective of the proposed recommendation is to establish a European Quality Assurance Reference Framework as a reference instrument to help Member States to promote and monitor continuous improvement of their VET systems, based on common European references.
It is recommended that Member States promote the use of the framework to foster continuous improvement of the quality of VET, and that they further develop it. It is also recommended to use the framework to promote inclusive cooperation and mutual learning through ENQAVET, to strengthen and further develop Quality Assurance National Reference Points, and monitor the implementation of the framework with a view to conducting a review of the recommendation, if appropriate, five years after its adoption.
B. RAPPORTEUR’S COMMENTS
The main function of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework is to provide agreed cross-country references that can help Member States and stakeholders to document, develop, monitor, evaluate and improve the effectiveness of their VET provisions and quality management practices.
The rapporteur would like to emphasize also the fact that there is a need for a complementary approach in formal education and non-formal education in order to better tailor the educational process to the real needs of the labour market. Thus, strategies for lifelong learning and mobility are essential to promote employability, active citizenship, social inclusion and personal development.
The rapporteur would like to point out the fact that one of the objectives of this framework will also be the development of stronger links between the national systems. In this context, it will be very important to consider and to share the good practices existent not only at national level but also at local and regional level.
The rapporteur believes as well that in order to devise a well-functioning national approach for the implementation of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, this should include the identification of a number of common indicators to assess and monitor progress and to support review, as well as a set of principles, methodologies, actions, measures and instruments aimed at improving quality, both at system level and at provider level.
In addition, the rapporteur emphasizes the importance of supporting self-evaluation as an important process for quality assurance, in order to measure success and to identify areas where an improvement is needed within the implementation of the European Network’s Work Programme.
In addition, she would like to draw attention to the following aspects:
- The Application of the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework is voluntary;
- There will be no cost impact on the EU budget as the Lifelong Learning Programme-Leonardo da Vinci- includes specific provision to support focused initiatives in this area and only monitoring costs are to be considered.
AMENDMENTS
The Committee on Culture and Education calls on the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, as the committee responsible, to incorporate the following amendments in its report:
Amendment 1 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 10 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(10) The Framework should comprise a quality assurance and improvement cycle of planning, implementation, evaluation/assessment and review of VET, supported by common quality criteria, indicative descriptors and indicators. The monitoring processes, including a combination of internal and external evaluation mechanisms, have to be defined by Member States as appropriate in order to identify the strength of systems, processes and procedures and areas for improvement. The Framework should include the use of measuring tools to provide evidence of effectiveness. |
(10) The Framework should comprise a quality assurance and improvement cycle of planning, implementation, evaluation/assessment and review of VET, supported by common quality criteria, indicative descriptors and indicators. The monitoring processes, including a combination of internal and external evaluation mechanisms, have to be defined by Member States as appropriate in order to identify the strength of systems, processes and procedures and areas for improvement. The Framework should include the use of measuring tools to provide evidence of effectiveness. It is important in this context that national quality frameworks should, as a minimum, comply with the standards and directives for quality assurance in intermediate vocational education and training laid down in the European Reference Framework. |
Amendment 2 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 12 a (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(12a) This Recommendation provides a framework for the identification, support and exchange of best practices not only at national but also at local and regional levels in all relevant networks including the ENQA-VET. |
Amendment 3 Proposal for a recommendation Recital 15 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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(15) This Recommendation conforms to the principle of proportionality referred to in that Article because it does not replace or define national quality assurance systems. The Framework does not prescribe a particular quality system or approach, but provides common principles, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and indicators that may help to assess and improve existing systems and provision. |
(15) This Recommendation conforms to the principle of proportionality referred to in that Article because it does not replace or define national quality assurance systems. The Framework does not prescribe a particular quality system or approach, but provides common principles, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and indicators that may help to assess and improve existing systems and provision. Consequently, freedom of policy is preserved in Member States while the European framework is complied with. |
Amendment 4 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 1 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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1. use and further develop the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and reference indicators as set out in Annexes 1 and 2, to further improve, reform and develop their VET systems, support lifelong learning strategies and the implementation of the EQF and promote a culture of quality improvement at all levels; |
1. use and further develop the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework, quality criteria, indicative descriptors and reference indicators as set out in Annexes 1 and 2, to further improve, reform and develop their VET systems, support lifelong learning strategies and the implementation of the EQF and of the European Quality Charter for Mobility and promote a culture of quality improvement at all levels. Extra emphasis should be placed on the transition from vocational education and training to higher education; |
Amendment 5 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 2 | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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2. devise a national approach for implementing the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework not later than 2010, involving the social partners and all other relevant stakeholders in accordance with national legislation and practice. This should include the identification of a number of common indicators to assess and monitor progress and to support review; |
2. devise a national approach for implementing the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework not later than 2010, involving the social partners and all other relevant stakeholders in accordance with national legislation and practice. This should include the identification of a number of common indicators to assess and monitor progress and to support review and of a set of principles, methodologies, actions, measures and instruments aimed at improving quality both at system level and provider level. It is also very important that Member States should develop greater mutual confidence in the quality of VET because, where such confidence exists, students will easily be able to receive part of their education abroad without this being at the expense of recognition of diplomas or of the level of education received; |
Amendment 6 Proposal for a recommendation Recommendation 4 – indent 3 a (new) | |
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Text proposed by the Commission |
Amendment |
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- support self-evaluation as a complementary and effective means of quality assurance which allows the measurement of success and the identification of areas for improvement in respect of the implementation of the European Network's Work Programme. |
Justification | |
It is very important to support the self-evaluation as an important process for quality assurance, in order to measure success and to identify areas where an improvement is needed within the implementation of the European Network's Work Programme. Self-evaluation will represent a complementary and effective means of quality assurance and it will be done by the Member States and stakeholders on a regularly basis in order to improve the effectiveness of their VET provisions and quality management practices. | |
PROCEDURE
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Title |
European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training |
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References |
COM(2008)0179 – C6-0163/2008 – 2008/0069(COD) |
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Committee responsible |
EMPL |
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Opinion by Date announced in plenary |
CULT 24.4.2008 |
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Associated committee(s) - date announced in plenary |
19.6.2008 |
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Drafts(wo)man Date appointed |
Ramona Nicole Mănescu 10.6.2008 |
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Discussed in committee |
24.6.2008 |
10.9.2008 |
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Date adopted |
7.10.2008 |
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Result of final vote |
+: –: 0: |
17 1 0 |
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Members present for the final vote |
Ivo Belet, Marielle De Sarnez, Marie-Hélène Descamps, Věra Flasarová, Milan Gaľa, Lissy Gröner, Ruth Hieronymi, Mikel Irujo Amezaga, Manolis Mavrommatis, Ljudmila Novak, Dumitru Oprea, Doris Pack, Zdzisław Zbigniew Podkański, Christa Prets, Hannu Takkula, Thomas Wise |
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Substitute(s) present for the final vote |
Rolf Berend, Jaroslav Zvěřina |
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PROCEDURE
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Title |
European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training |
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References |
COM(2008)0179 – C6-0163/2008 – 2008/0069(COD) |
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Date submitted to Parliament |
9.4.2008 |
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Committee responsible Date announced in plenary |
EMPL 24.4.2008 |
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Committee(s) asked for opinion(s) Date announced in plenary |
CULT 24.4.2008 |
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Associated committee(s) Date announced in plenary |
CULT 19.6.2008 |
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Rapporteur(s) Date appointed |
Jan Andersson 6.5.2008 |
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Discussed in committee |
10.9.2008 |
6.10.2008 |
4.11.2008 |
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Date adopted |
5.11.2008 |
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Result of final vote |
+: –: 0: |
41 1 1 |
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Members present for the final vote |
Jan Andersson, Iles Braghetto, Philip Bushill-Matthews, Alejandro Cercas, Ole Christensen, Derek Roland Clark, Luigi Cocilovo, Jean Louis Cottigny, Jan Cremers, Proinsias De Rossa, Harald Ettl, Richard Falbr, Carlo Fatuzzo, Ilda Figueiredo, Joel Hasse Ferreira, Stephen Hughes, Karin Jöns, Sajjad Karim, Jean Lambert, Bernard Lehideux, Elizabeth Lynne, Thomas Mann, Jan Tadeusz Masiel, Elisabeth Morin, Juan Andrés Naranjo Escobar, Csaba Őry, Siiri Oviir, Marie Panayotopoulos-Cassiotou, Pier Antonio Panzeri, Elisabeth Schroedter, José Albino Silva Peneda, Jean Spautz, Gabriele Stauner, Ewa Tomaszewska, Anne Van Lancker, Gabriele Zimmer |
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Substitute(s) present for the final vote |
Françoise Castex, Anna Ibrisagic, Rumiana Jeleva, Patrizia Toia, Claude Turmes |
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Substitute(s) under Rule 178(2) present for the final vote |
Giles Chichester, Viktória Mohácsi, Silvia-Adriana Ţicău |
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