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Welsh Qualifications Database Survey

We believe that the time is right to review whether the Database of Approved Qualifications in Wales (DAQW) meets the needs of all stakeholders.

Background

DAQW was created in September 2009, for the purpose of sharing information with learning providers about approved qualifications that are eligible for funding in Wales. With many changes taking place in education and training in Wales, we need to ensure our systems can meet future needs. We are therefore carrying out a brief survey of stakeholder experiences and needs.

Currently there are multiple IT system and databases performing similar functions both internally and externally to Welsh Government. These include DAQW, the Register of Regulated Qualifications, Regulatory Information Technology System (RITS), Welsh Learning Aims Database (WLAD) and Careers Wales On Line.

The development of any system would need to address:

  • potential changes resulting from the Review of Qualifications, which may lead to a requirement for additional functionality such as content aggregation (i.e. where several units can be combined to make an award) and greater control over visibility and options/restrictions on qualifications. A new learning data base could therefore include aggregation and course selection based on programmes.
  • the work in the area of Quality Assured Lifelong Learning (QALL) is increasing. Any new system should make it easier for learners and providers to get information on QALL.
  • proposals for programme-based approaches to curriculum and funding may lead to requirements for additional functionality and greater control over compilations of ‘sets’ of qualifications and quality assured lifelong learning.
  • potential changes resulting from the Review of Funding may lead to a requirement for additional functionality and links to information about funding availability and restrictions.
  • improved links with the Careers Wales on Line services.
  • reducing the bureaucratic burden involved information collection and sharing.

Survey of stakeholders

We are therefore carrying out a survey into stakeholder needs. The aim of this survey is to:

  • explore stakeholder needs regarding qualifications data;
  • provide a richer information environment for all stakeholders;
  • reduce the cost and burden of administration;
  • improve the effectiveness of advice, guidance and choice of learning; and
  • widen access to information about qualifications and learning in Wales.

Please respond by 5 October 2012.