Cross-border Previous Learning Recognition: Enhancing Lifelong Learning and Social Inclusion

Abstract

Regarded as a social advancement tool, Previous Learning Recognition (RPL) processes' development in cross-border regions should enable the transferring of qualified and Higher Education graduated workforce across territories. Within the project LLL-Transversalis, French universities have been establishing RPL assessement events with international participants (Spanish and Andorran) in order to build a cross-border RPL system in the Pyrenees region. This paper exposes the characteristiques of these unique RPL processes and the results obtained. So far, eleven events have been developed, accrediting students in the domains of Engineering, Tourism and Management. Jurys were compounded on average of 7 members from both academic and professional worlds and observers from Spain and Andorra were present. Feedback from international participants is highly positive. Due to the economic and social crisis caused by Covid-19, cross-border and national RPL could turn out to be an effective way to galvanize human capital growth in the following years, hence the value of this project's actions. Taking advantage of mobility restrictions caused by the sanitary crisis, the first online cross-border RPL events will take place later this year, setting a starting point for further research and innovation on these practices in Spain and Andorra with the help of French institutions.