The European Learning Model

The European Learning Model (ELM) is the first multilingual Data Model for the Interoperability of learning opportunities, qualifications, accreditation, and credentials in Europe, developed by the European Commission. Built on open standards (W3C Verifiable Credential data model), the ELM provides the first unitary and comprehensive data model across the European Education Area. Available in 30 languages, it provides tools to facilitate the recognition of qualifications and validation of skills, promoting a culture of upskilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning. 

With over 560 properties, the ELM allows for the capture and validation of all learning related data, including formal, non-formal and informal learning. It caters for the needs of all general education, vocational education and training, higher education, adult learning, and labour market training programmes. This allows for the creation and portability of rich data, that are not limited to a single sector, and addresses actors in employment, skills, qualifications, education and training alike. 

ESCO is integrated within the European Learning Model, allowing for the easy referencing of relevant skills concepts through European Digital Credentials for Learning or a published qualification or learning opportunity. Similarly, it allows the referencing of ESCO occupations that an individual may have access to as a result of an entitlement. Currently, Member States and other stakeholders wishing to publish information on their qualifications and learning opportunities in Europass need to structure their data according to the European Learning Model. 

Used jointly, ELM and ESCO can support skills recognition, facilitate interoperability in learning in Europe, and provide the basis for the publication of data rich learning opportunities and qualifications, supporting the development of new tools such as learning opportunity recommender systems or skills intelligence tools. 

Additional documentation

For further insights into the European Learning Model, you can follow the links: 

• ELM datamodel browser
• European Learning Model for Stakeholders | Europass