Introduction of the Self-Assessment Process in Croatian VET

The strategic framework established in 2008 and the legislative framework introduced in 2009 laid the foundation for implementing the self-assessment process in the Croatian vocational education and training (VET) system. Following this, the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (AVETAE) designed and piloted the Self-Assessment Framework for VET in 2010. By 2012, the self-assessment process was officially introduced in VET institutions.

According to the legislative framework, all VET institutions are required to conduct a self-assessment once per year and participate in external evaluations. A peer review process is currently being integrated into the external evaluation system. In the meantime, other external evaluation methods are being used, including inspection supervision, professional-pedagogical supervision, the national matura exam, and other national examinations.

Purpose and Structure of the Self-Assessment Process

In Croatian VET institutions, the self-assessment process is a core component of the quality assurance system, which has been developed in alignment with the recommendations of the European Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training (EQAVET) framework. According to EQAVET, all VET institutions in Croatia are encouraged to develop internal quality assurance systems based on the PIER cycle: Planning, Implementation, Evaluation, and Review.

The main objective of both quality assurance and the self-assessment process is to ensure the continuous improvement of VET institutions. The current quality assurance system evaluates all aspects of institutional activity, including management, quality assurance mechanisms, work planning, teaching processes, evaluation methods, human resources and teacher development, material conditions, collaboration with other institutions and stakeholders, and the promotion of the institution.

Implementation Tools and Responsibilities

During the self-assessment process, each VET institution prepares a self-assessment report. Based on the findings of this report, the institution plans further development activities. The process is guided by national documents such as the Self-Assessment Manual (2010) and the Self-Assessment Methodology (2020). Additionally, institutions may use the e-Quality application as a support tool.

Each institution is required to establish a Self-Assessment Committee, appoint a Self-Assessment Coordinator, and designate a Quality Coordinator. These individuals are responsible for coordinating and monitoring the self-assessment process.

Role of AVETAE

The role of AVETAE in supporting the self-assessment process is defined by the national VET law (2009, last amended in 2022). AVETAE provides support to VET institutions in several ways:

• It offers consulting services to assist with the implementation of the self-assessment process.
• It organizes professional development for members of quality committees, coordinators, and teachers.
• It supervises the implementation of the process, collects and reviews self-assessment reports, and provides feedback to institutions.
• It conducts visits to institutions undergoing the self-assessment process.
• It develops additional resources to support institutions in carrying out self-assessment.

Future Improvements

As part of the ongoing development of the Croatian VET system, one of the key measures is to enhance the self-assessment process and better integrate it with external evaluation. This includes:

• Improving the current self-assessment model.
• Strengthening the internal capacities of institutions to carry out self-assessment.
• Ensuring continuous external support for institutions.
• Increasing collaboration between institutions.
• Creating stronger links between the improved self-assessment process and the external evaluation process.