G u I d e L i n e s m a n u a L s a n d g u I d e L i n e s

1.3. Single learning activities (SLAs) 

Learning activities are made up of one or more single learning activities. The single learning activity 

is therefore the basic theoretical building block of the CLA, with which all learning activities can be 

captured and described. 

A single learning activity is defined as being ‘characterised by unity of method and subject’. 

This means that each time there is a change in the method of learning or subject of learning there is 

a different single learning activity. Figure 1 illustrates this (subjects in rows, methods in columns). 

The subject (or field) is what the individual learns. The ISCED fields of education and training 2013 

(ISCED-F 2013)

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 is the classification to be used for the content of educational programmes. 

The method is the organisational frame used to learn or to teach (i.e. acquire or transmit ideas, 

information, knowledge, skills and competences). This can take the form of (educational) 

programmes, courses, events, or other more or less organised forms. 

The method, i.e. organisational frame, coincides closest with the everyday understanding of the 

method used for learning at different levels (e.g. classroom instruction, private tuition, self-learning). 

Within each SLA, different learning media and tools may be used. A change in media or tools does 

                                                           

 

 

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ISCED

 2011, paragraph 15, page 7. 

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HALLA, page 12.

 

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  ISCED 2011, Annex IV and the ISCED fields of education and training 2013 (ISCED-F 2013, manual to accompany the ISCED 2011). 

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General concepts and definitions 

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Classification of learning activities 

– manual 

not mean a change of SLA. This means that, for example, even if classroom instruction includes oral 

presentations, using books in the classroom and using the internet in the classroom, the activity 

should still be considered as one SLA.