What are transversal competences
These training activities are aimed at providing students with an initial set of knowledge, skills and qualities that come into play when translating a competence into behaviour, responding to a need in the organisational environment, as well as implementing and improving the development of so-called soft skills for greater integration into the world of work. This requirement stems from the intention to bridge the gap between the university and the world of work, given that the process of globalisation and the emergence of the knowledge economy have given rise to new economic, social, political and cultural challenges. In this scenario, specific knowledge, competences and skills play an increasingly important role in development processes.
In 2018, the European Union has updated the list of key competences for lifelong learning, aimed at the fulfilment and development of each person, for active citizenship, social inclusion and employment.
These competences are identified with reference to eight areas:
- functional literacy;
- multilingual competence;
- mathematical competence and competence in science, technology and engineering;
- digital competence;
- personal, social and learning-to-learn skills;
- citizenship competence;
- entrepreneurial competence;
- competence in cultural awareness and expression.
Transversal competences therefore complement disciplinary knowledge and skills, enabling the individual to acquire fundamental skills for life and work. These competences relate to cognitive, implementation, managerial, relational and communication skills.
Who can register
All students enrolled in courses at the University of Parma are eligible for cross-curricular activities. These educational activities can only be opted for by the student in the year in which the curriculum provides for free-choice credits.
How to register
Transversal skills courses can be included by students in their educational path, either as curricular credits among elective courses (TAF D), or directly by filling in the programme of study online in the following time windows (to be updated) established annually, or as supernumerary training credits. In the latter case, interested students must apply to their Student registry office, which will arrange for the course to be included in their career; the educational activity will be uploaded onto the student's transcript and the Diploma Supplement.
