We are pleased to announce that an open seminar will be held as follows:
■Date
14:00–16:00 Wednesday, 8 July 2026 (JST)
■Theme
The development of the competency-based approach in French higher education
■Venue
Hybrid (In-Person & Online)
In-Person: Room 112, Research Institute for Higher Education (RIHE), Hiroshima University
Online: Zoom
■Language
The seminar will be given in French with Japanese translation.
■MC
Jun OBA (Hiroshima University)
■Lecturer
Fabienne Maillard（Paris 8 University）
■Abstract
Originating from a model implemented in secondary vocational education, the competency-based approach has been developing in French higher education for the past three decades. Since 2002, under the auspices of legislation on lifelong vocational training, all higher education qualifications have become “vocationally oriented,” being defined in terms of target occupations and associated competencies. They must be registered in the National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP) through standardised summary sheets that are used for all professional certifications listed in the Directory. Competency-based learning and vocationalisation are therefore intrinsically linked in higher education, in the name of democratising access to higher education, promoting the professional integration of graduates, and strengthening ties with the needs of the economy. To overcome the resistance and criticism that this model has generated within the academic community, reforms have been introduced continuously, most often by the ministry responsible for vocational training and without consultation or negotiation with representatives of the academic staff. This situation prompts us to reflect on the future of higher education, and of the university in particular.
■Note
・Participation fee is free.
・Registration is open noon on Tuesday, 7 July 2026 (JST).
・This public seminar is part of a JSPS-funded project led by Associate Professor Moeko HOSOO.
(Components of competency and its development and evaluation in France: from the perspective of articulation between different levels of schools: Basic Research (B) 24K00380)
・Internet access and a camera/microphone device required to participate online.
・Use your full name as your personal meeting ID when you enter the meeting room. If you do not, you may not be allowed to enter the meeting room.
・Recording/screenshots not allowed.
・The meeting URL will be emailed to you separately by the day before the meeting. If you do not receive the e-mail, please contact us at k-kokyo(at)office.hiroshima-u.ac.jp
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