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

1.6. Operational criteria for distinguishing 

broad categories of learning activities 

While preparing a set of recommendations to follow when classifying learning activities, the task 

force on measuring lifelong learning provided a list of criteria that can be used to distinguish the 

different types of education and learning activities. 

The 2006 version of the CLA did not include these criteria; they were added (with minor changes) 

after discussions on the implementation of the 2011 AES and the new ISCED 2011. An additional 

criterion was also added to align the concept of formal education to the one used in the ISCED.  

The full list of criteria is as follows (see section 1.6.2 for further details): 

 

 

Criterion 

Formal 

Non-formal 

Informal 

(a) 

Intention to learn 

X 

X 

X 

(b) 

Organisation 

X 

X 

 

(c) 

Institutional framework and location 

X 

X 

 

(d) 

Hierarchy level-grade structure 

(‘ladder’) 

X 

 

 

(e) 

Admission requirements 

X 

 

 

(f) 

Registration requirements 

X 

(X) 

 

(g) 

Teaching/learning methods 

(predetermined/not flexible) 

X 

X 

(X) 

(h) 

Duration of at least one semester 

(minimum of 30 ECTS

24

) 

X 

 

 

(i) 

Recognition of the programme by the 

relevant national education or 

equivalent authorities  

X