Description:

This project aims to measure the extent that "key competences for lifelong learning", as defined by the European Parliament in the recommendation adopted in Lisbon in December 2006, are being implemented in primary and secondary schools across the EU-27 countries.

Alongside the 'classical' key competences organised in subject areas (Communication in the mother tongue; Communication in foreign languages; Mathematical competence and competence in science and technology), the Recommendation stresses the importance of new, cross-curricular key competences, namely Digital competence; Learning to learn; Social and civic competences; Sense of initiative and entrepreneurship, and Cultural awareness and expression, all of which contribute to a successful life in the knowledge society. The eight key competences of the Framework are underpinned by horizontal qualities such as critical thinking, creativity, initiative, problem solving, risk assessment, decision taking, and constructive management of feelings.

At the end of the 18-month project, the researchers will submit a report to the EC in which they will offer a systematic and comparative overview of how key competences are being incorporated into the education systems and teacher training in each of the EU-27 countries. The report will include conclusions on the best policy practices and the most innovative ways of including key competences into school curriculae.

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