the framework of key competences for lifelong learning: definition and knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to individual competences; some videos for more information
Flexible adaptation to a rapidly changing world and finding own space in the world of work, both require transversal and basic skills. These are acquired through formal training paths, but also through non-formal or informal paths: more and more you learn at school but also in extra-school activities. Most of all you need to update your skills every day.
While preparing this part of the course, we have at first imagined that we could select some of the necessary skills, but we realized, along the way, that all those indicated by the European Union as indispensable are necessary if you want to undertake activities as professionals in this sector.
In the following blocks you will find the list of skills described in the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 on key competences for lifelong learning; each individual competence is described in its basic functions and is accompanied by a brief description; for some of the listed skills you will also find in-depth references from an ME-traders point of view.
Communication in the mother tongue
Definition
Communication in the mother tongue is the ability to express and interpret concepts, thoughts, feelings, facts and opinions in both oral and written forms […] and to interact adequately and creatively on the linguistic level in a whole range of cultural and social contexts. […].
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
[…] Communication in the mother tongue presupposes that a person is aware of the vocabulary, the functional grammar and the functions of the language. This involves a knowledge of the main types of verbal interaction […] as well as the variability of language and communication in different contexts. […] […] also includes the ability to distinguish and use different types of texts, to search for, collect and process information, to use subsidies and to formulate and express arguments in a convincing and appropriate way to the context, both orally and in writing. A positive attitude towards communication in the mother tongue leads to the availability of a critical and constructive dialogue […] awareness of the impact of language on others and the need to understand and use language in a positive and socially responsible way.
Definition
Communication in foreign languages essentially shares the main skills required for communication in the mother tongue. Communication in foreign languages also requires skills such as mediation and intercultural understanding.
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
Competence in foreign languages requires knowledge of vocabulary and functional grammar and an awareness of the main types of verbal interaction and language registries. Knowledge of social conventions, cultural aspects and variability of languages is also important. […] A positive attitude involves appreciation of cultural diversity as well as interest and curiosity for languages and intercultural communication.
Mathematical competence and basic skills in science and technology
Definition
Mathematical competence is the ability to develop and apply mathematical thinking to solve a series of problems in everyday situations. Starting from a solid mastery of arithmetical-mathematical skills, the emphasis is placed on the aspects of the process and of the activity as well as those of knowledge. Mathematical competence involves, to varying degrees, the ability and willingness to use mathematical models of thought (logical and spatial thinking) and presentation (formulas, models, constructs, graphs, charts).
Competence in science refers to the ability and willingness to use the set of knowledge and methodologies possessed to explain the world around us, knowing how to identify the problems and drawing conclusions that are based on proven facts. Competence in technology is considered the application of this knowledge and methodology to respond to the desires or needs felt by human beings. Competence in science and technology involves understanding the changes brought about by human activity and awareness of the responsibility of each citizen.
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
The necessary knowledge in the field of mathematics includes a solid knowledge of calculation, measurements and structures, basic operations and basic mathematical presentations, an understanding of mathematical terms and concepts and an awareness of the questions to which mathematics can provide an answer.
A person should have the skills to apply the basic mathematical principles and processes in the everyday context in the domestic sphere and at work, and to follow and evaluate concatenations of topics. […] A positive attitude in relation to mathematics is based on respect for the truth and on the willingness to look for motivations and to determine their validity.
As far as science and technology are concerned, essential knowledge includes the basic principles of the natural world, fundamental scientific concepts, principles and methods, technology and technological products and processes, as well as an understanding of the impact of science and technology on natural environment. These skills should enable people to better understand the progress, limitations and risks of scientific theories and applications and technology in society at large (in relation to decision-making, values, moral issues, culture, etc.). ). […]
This competence includes an attitude of critical appraisal and curiosity, an interest in ethical issues and respect for both security and sustainability, in particular as regards scientific and technological progress in relation to the individual, the family, the community and to issues of global dimension.
Definition
Digital competence consists in knowing how to use the information society technologies (TSI) for work, leisure and communication with confidence and a critical spirit. It is supported by basic ICT skills: the use of computers to find, evaluate, store, produce, present and exchange information as well as to communicate and participate in collaborative networks via the Internet.
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
Digital competence requires a solid awareness and knowledge of the nature, role and opportunities of IST in everyday life: in private and social life as well as at work. This includes the main IT applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, storage and management of information as well as an awareness of the opportunities and potential risks of the Internet and of communication via electronic media (e-mail, network tools). ) for work, leisure time, information sharing and collaborative networks, learning and research. […]
The necessary skills include: the ability to search, collect and process information and use it in a critical and systematic way, ascertaining its relevance and distinguishing the real from the virtual while recognizing the correlations. People should also be able to use tools to produce, present and understand complex information and be able to access Internet-based services, research and use them. People should also be able to use IST to support critical thinking, creativity and innovation. […].
Definition
Learning to learn is the ability to persevere in learning, to organize one’s own learning also through effective management of time and information, both individually and in groups. This competence includes awareness of one’s learning process and needs, identification of available opportunities and the ability to overcome obstacles to learn effectively. This competence involves the acquisition, processing and assimilation of new knowledge and skills as well as the research and use of guidance opportunities. Learning to learn means that learners start from what they have learned before and from their life experiences to use and apply knowledge and skills in a range of contexts: at home, at work, in education and in training. Motivation and trust are essential elements for a person to acquire this competence.
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
Where learning is aimed at particular work or career goals, a person should be aware of the skills, knowledge, skills and qualifications required. In all cases learning to learn means that a person knows and understands their preferred learning strategies, strengths and weaknesses of their skills and qualifications and is able to look for education and training opportunities and guidance tools.
Abilities to learn to learn first require the acquisition of basic skills such as reading, writing and calculating and using the ICT skills needed for further learning. Starting from these skills a person should be able to acquire, procure, process and assimilate new knowledge and skills. This implies effective management of one’s own learning, career and working patterns, and in particular the ability to persevere in learning, to concentrate for prolonged periods of time and to reflect critically on the objectives and objectives of learning [ …]. A positive attitude includes motivation and confidence to persevere and succeed in lifelong learning. An aptitude for dealing with problems to solve them is useful both for the learning process itself and for managing obstacles and change. The desire to apply what has been learned previously and their life experiences as well as the curiosity to look for new opportunities to learn and apply learning in a range of life contexts are essential elements of a positive attitude.
Definition
Social and civic competences include personal, interpersonal and intercultural skills and concern all forms of behaviour that allow us to participate effectively and constructively in social and working life, particularly in life in increasingly diversified societies […].
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
[…] for an effective social and interpersonal participation it is essential to understand the codes of behaviour and manners generally accepted in different environments and societies (for example at work). It is also important to know the basic concepts concerning individuals, groups, work organizations, equality and non-discrimination between the sexes, society and culture. It is also essential to understand the multicultural and socio-economic dimensions of European societies and the way in which national cultural identity interacts with European identity.
The common basis of this competence includes the ability to communicate constructively in different environments, to express and understand different points of view, to negotiate with the ability to create trust and to be in tune with others. […]. The competence is based on the attitude to collaboration, assertiveness and integrity. […] is based on knowledge of the concepts of democracy, justice, equality, citizenship and civil rights, including in the form in which they are formulated in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and in international declarations and in the form in which they are applied [ …].
Skills in civic competence include the ability to engage effectively with others in the public sphere as well as to show solidarity and interest in solving problems affecting the local community and the wider community […] as well as decision making in all levels, from local to national and European, in particular through voting. […].
Sense for initiative and entrepreneurship
Definition
Sense of initiative and entrepreneurship concern a person’s ability to translate ideas into action. This includes creativity, innovation and risk-taking, as well as the ability to plan and manage projects to achieve goals. It is a skill that helps individuals, not only in their daily lives, in the domestic sphere and in society, but also in the workplace, to be aware of the context in which they operate and to be able to seize the opportunities offered and it is a point of departure for the more specific skills and knowledge that those who start or contribute to a social or commercial activity need. It should include awareness of ethical values and promote good governance.
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
The knowledge necessary for this purpose includes the ability to identify the opportunities available for personal, professional and / or economic activities, including broader issues […] such as a general knowledge of the functioning of the economy, of the opportunities and challenges that arise and which are faced by employers or an organization. […] Skills relate to proactive project management (which includes, for example, the ability to plan, organize, manage, lead and delegate, analyse, communicate, report, evaluate and register), the ability effective representation and negotiation and the ability to work both individually and in partnerships within groups. It is also necessary to discern and identify one’s strengths and weaknesses and to weigh and take risks when necessary.
An entrepreneurial attitude is characterized by a sense of initiative, ability to anticipate events, independence and innovation in private and social life as well as at work. This includes motivation and determination to achieve goals, be they personal, or common with others, even at work.
Definizione
Awareness of the importance of the creative expression of ideas, experiences and emotions in a wide variety of media, including music, the performing arts, literature and the visual arts.
Knowledge, skills and essential attitudes related to this competence
Cultural knowledge presupposes an awareness of local, national and European cultural heritage and its place in the world. […] It is essential to understand the cultural and linguistic diversity in Europe and in other parts of the world, the need to preserve it and the importance of aesthetic factors in daily life.
Among the skills there is also the ability to correlate one’s own creative and expressive points of view to the opinions of others and to identify and realize social and economic opportunities in the context of cultural activity. Cultural expression is essential in the development of creative skills, which can be transferred to many professional contexts.
A solid understanding of one’s own culture and a sense of identity can form the basis of an open attitude towards the diversity of cultural expression and respect for it. […]
