Implementing NVQs: The Experience of Employers, Employees and Trainees. Report 265

The use of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) within work organizations in the United Kingdom was examined in a study of 15 large employers. Human resources development managers and NVQ candidates within each firm were interviewed/surveyed as were the individuals responsible for NVQ implementation at six firms. Only a few employers had disseminated information about NVQs widely, and only employees who had been involved in NVQ activity as assessors or candidates were likely to know about them. Although many employers were clear about a number of important potential benefits of NVQs, they were also usually aware of the major costs associated with delivery of NVQs and had reservations about the suitability of NVQs for the job and work force. Among the employees and trainees surveyed (272 usable responses), the most popular reason for working toward NVQs was to get a nationally recognized qualification. Job security and career-related motives were also considered important by many respondents. Employers and employees alike expressed considerable support for NVQs and expected them to improve job performance and employee morale. The most common criticism of NVQs was their confusing language. Seventeen points of good practice were identified. (Appendixes include the survey instrument and tables detailing the survey responses.) (MN)