Spain designing its National Catalogue of Vocational Qualifications

A Preparation of information & conformation of WG: at national level, with statistical, research and participation of stakeholders

B Design of competences involved in the Qualification: through technological experts at sectoral level.

C Definition of associated training: based in learning outcomes through trained experts

D External Contrast of Qualifications: at national, regional and sectoral level by the relevant stakeholders

E Approval of Qualification: by the General Council of VET, and the Spanish Government

The process of occupational analysis focuses on reviewing different sources (classification of occupations, sectoral economic information, training needs analyses) and is developed along two main phases: the first one is establishing the occupational structure of the professional family and the second one is determining the vocational profiles of such occupations. It makes use of functional analysis as it regards it as an instrument which surpasses task analysis. Occupations are seen as a group of professional activities belonging to different job positions that share some characteristics. Their tasks are carried out with similar standards, techniques and means and they respond to the same level of qualification.

The vocational profile, which results from the second phase, is the description of the competencies and skills required for performing an occupation,as well as the conditions for professional development. It is formed by the statement of general competency, the description of competency units, the identification of vocational accomplishments, the description and grouping of tasks and the specification of execution criteria.