III. PATHWAYS TO RECOGNITION IN CANADA
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The following diagram represents the scope of the Framework as viewed through the eyes of an individual seeking to put their foreign qualifications to use within the Canadian labour market. The Framework spans the steps and processes that individuals face as they move through the system, which is increasingly beginning before an individual’s arrival in Canada.
The first step of the pathway calls for consistent and reliable information, self-assessment tools, and other supports, both overseas and in Canada, to equip individuals with a clear understanding of educational and licensing requirements, as well as an orientation to the Canadian workplace.
The next step is for the individual to begin the process of assessment and recognition. The assessment stage typically includes a verification of authenticity of academic credentials and the identification and evaluation of knowledge, credentials, and work experience required for entry into regulated occupations or educational programs. Occupation specific examinations, language testing, and other evaluation activities may also be required as part of the assessment process.
Third-party agencies often conduct qualification assessments for regulated occupations. While some agencies employ strict and codified assessment procedures, others employ varied standards. Disagreement on the value of a credential can dramatically impact an individual’s access to a given occupation.
Registration decisions are made by regulatory authorities on the basis of these assessed qualifications.
Once qualifications have been assessed, an applicant should receive a clear decision from the regulatory authority that directs them toward their appropriate pathway. The pathway will depend on the degree to which an applicant’s qualifications demonstrate that they have the required knowledge, skills and experience to practice competently in their chosen occupation.
The direct pathway to certification is for applicants who fully demonstrate the required qualifications. It involves the regulatory authority for a given occupation registering or licensing the applicant so that they may practice in their chosen occupation.
The pathway to skills upgrading is for applicants who must obtain some additional requirements in order to practice in their chosen occupation. This pathway will involve skills upgrading and reassessment should the individual wish to pursue licensure.
The alternate pathway to related occupations is for those applicants whose qualifications do not meet the requirements of their occupation, and for whom skills upgrading is not an option. It involves the provision of career planning advice to the individual so that they can most effectively build on their experience in related occupations.
The final destination of each of these pathways is participation in the Canadian workforce at a level that most appropriately reflects an individual’s qualifications. Each step of the pathway requires the cooperation of a number of stakeholders and a variety of supports.
Description:
PATHWAYS TO RECOGNITION IN CANADA:
- Box 1 : “Preparation & Pre-Arrival Supports” is in a box at the far left of the diagram with an arrow pointing right.
- Box 2 : “Assessment” is in a box left of the centre of the diagram with arrows pointing up towards Box 6 , down towards Box 8 , and right towards Box 3.
- Box 3 : “Recognition: Pathway to Certification” is in a box at the very centre of the diagram with an arrow pointing right.
- Box 4 : “Individual & Employer Supports” is in a box at the right of centre with an arrow pointing right.
- Box 5 : “Workforce Participation” is in a wavy box at the far right of centre.
- Box 6 – Top: “Partial Recognition: Pathway to Skills Upgrading” is in a box located directly above Box 3 with an arrow that does a ninety-degree turn down and left toward Box 3.
- Box 7 – Top: “Informed of the additional requirements necessary for registration” is in a rounded box located directly above Box 4 and Box 5.
- Box 8 – Bottom: “Non-Recognition: Alternate Pathway to Related Occupations” is in a box located directly below Box 3 with an arrow pointing up and right toward Box 4.
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