Introduction

This scan can be used to map those competences which are directly related to the possibility to enter and join in the host country’s society of the newly arrived. Similarly, these competences are also relevant for increasing the possibility of newly arrived to become active through voluntary work, to enter certain job related training or to accept a first (paid) job.

The competences selected are based on the eight key competences for Life Long Learning as discerned by the European Commission. These key competences are relevant for all citizens throughout their whole life time and enable them to live a life as active citizen, to adapt to changing situations in life and work, and to be able to enjoy and participate in what the society is offering.

To increase conformity and comparison most of the issues addressed in the scan are based on the EU definition of the chosen competences (May 2018). These definitions are rather broad and generic, and imply also the mastery of some additional but underlying competences and skills (like for example communication skills and competences, reading and writing). To prevent a long and time consuming assessment process the current quick scan however will only address a rather basic mastery level since that will be a prerequisite for further development which is more in line with the actual situation of newly arrived.

Apart from the above 4 competences the quick scan also maps the current situation of the newly arrived regarding health.

The areas addressed in this quick scan are related to the following definitions of competences and related knowledge and skills:

1. Literacy/Communication (language):

EU definition: Literacy is the ability to identify, understand, express, create, and interpret concepts, feelings, facts and opinions in both oral and written forms, using visual, sound/audio and digital materials across disciplines and contexts. It implies the ability to communicate and connect effectively with others, in an appropriate and creative way.

2. Digital competence

EU definition: Digital competence involves the confident, critical and responsible use of, and engagement with, digital technologies for learning, at work, and for participation in society.

3. Mathematical competence (numeracy and budgeting)

EU definition: Mathematical competence is the ability to develop and apply mathematical thinking and insight in order to solve a range of problems in everyday situations. Building on a sound mastery of numeracy, the emphasis is on process and activity, as well as knowledge.

4. Active citizenship (Social and civic competences, “community engagement”)

EU definition: Citizenship competence is the ability to act as responsible citizens and to fully participate in civic and social life, based on understanding of social, economic, legal and political concepts and structures, as well as global developments and sustainability.

5. Health

Draft definition: Physical and mental health are the two major areas covering the health competence. Being competent in health is the ability to understand the wealth and importance of the concept of health in general and how to access the different health related institutes.
The health competence is an essential part of citizenship and is linked to underlying literacy and digital competences.

Reminder:

When interpreting scores, one needs to keep in mind that if a person is weak for example in communication and literacy this will affect the other competences. The respondent will be in need for more intense support in all other areas. When reporting this interrelationship needs to be considered for all scores on all competences.

Questionnaire Quick scan

Please indicate for the following statements whether you can agree and to what amount you agree by ticking the appropriate box below each statement.