Instrument for development and classification of qualifications (at national or sectoral levels) according to a set of criteria (using descriptors) applicable to specified levels of learning outcomes. OR instrument for classification of qualifications according to a set of criteria for specified levels of learning achieved, which aims to integrate and coordinate qualifications subsystems and improve transparency, access, progression and quality of qualifications in relation to the labour market and civil society. Comment: a qualification framework can be used to: -establish national standards of knowledge, skills and competences; -promote quality of education; -provide a system of coordination and/or integration of qualifications and enable comparison of qualifications by relating qualifications to one another; -promote access to learning, transfer of learning outcomes and progression in learning. Source: Cedefop, 2008; european Parliament and Council of the European Union, 2008; OECD, 2007.