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What is ISO 29993:2017?

ISO 29993:2017 is an international standard that provides a framework for delivering learning services outside formal education. This includes training sessions, workshops, e-learning, and seminars. The focus is on ensuring these experiences are structured, learner-centered, and effective.

Why ISO 29993 Matters in Today’s Learning Ecosystem

As education moves beyond the classroom, ISO 29993 bridges the gap between traditional education and real-world skill development. Whether you’re organizing a corporate workshop or attending a weekend coding bootcamp, this standard ensures quality, consistency, and measurable outcomes.

Understanding Non-Formal Education

What is Non-Formal Education?

Non-formal education refers to structured learning activities conducted outside traditional academic institutions. These are typically practical, short-term programs aimed at personal or professional development.

Examples of Non-Formal Learning

 

    • Corporate training sessions

    • Vocational skills programs

    • Language learning apps

    • Online certification courses

    • Community education workshops

Difference Between Formal, Informal, and Non-Formal Learning

Type Structure Setting Examples
Formal Structured Schools/Colleges Degree programs, exams
Informal Unstructured Daily Life Learning from experiences
Non-Formal Structured Outside School Workshops, online courses

Scope and Purpose of ISO 29993:2017

Who Can Benefit from This Standard?

 

    • Training providers

    • Corporate L&D departments

    • Coaching centers

    • Online course platforms

If you deliver structured learning outside traditional schools or universities, this standard is for you.

Key Objectives of ISO 29993

 

    • Ensure transparency in learning services

    • Provide high-quality and consistent education

    • Enhance learner satisfaction

    • Support measurable learning outcomes

Benefits of ISO 29993 Certification

For Training Providers

 

    • Build trust and credibility

    • Differentiate services in a competitive market

    • Expand into new markets

For Learners

 

    • Clear expectations on course outcomes

    • Confidence in the training quality

    • Improved overall experience

For Organizations and Employers

 

    • Align training with strategic goals

    • Verify partner competencies

    • Achieve measurable return on investment (ROI)

Core Components of the Standard

Learning Services Outside Formal Education

Face-to-Face Learning

Instructor-led sessions conducted on-site or at designated venues.

Online and Blended Learning

Digital platforms, virtual classrooms, and hybrid methods that combine in-person and remote learning.

Key Processes Outlined in ISO 29993

 

    • Needs analysis

    • Learning design

    • Delivery and facilitation

    • Learner assessment

    • Feedback collection

Structure of ISO 29993:2017

1. Service Requirements

Defines what learning services must offer—qualified trainers, reliable content, and strong learner engagement.

2. Information Requirements

Outlines the need for transparency in course details: objectives, fees, duration, prerequisites, and expected outcomes.

3. Assessment and Evaluation

Ensures that learners achieve outcomes through structured evaluations, tests, and feedback.

Implementation Guide

Step-by-Step ISO 29993 Implementation

 

    1. Conduct a gap analysis

    1. Define learning objectives

    1. Align staff and resources

    1. Document key processes

    1. Monitor and evaluate outcomes

    1. Apply for certification

Common Challenges & Solutions

 

    • Resistance to change? Offer internal awareness training

    • Budget constraints? Start with small pilot programs

    • Low awareness? Educate stakeholders about the value

Quality Assurance in Learning Services

Continuous Improvement in Non-Formal Learning

ISO 29993 fosters a culture of:

 

    • Self-evaluation

    • Performance review

    • Ongoing upgrades to training content

Feedback and Performance Evaluation

Utilize:

 

    • Surveys

    • Learner feedback

    • Outcome analysis

…to refine training effectiveness.

Comparison with Other ISO Standards

ISO 29993 vs. ISO 21001

 

    • ISO 21001 is for formal educational institutions

    • ISO 29993 is for external providers of learning services

How ISO 29993 Aligns with ISO 9001

 

    • Both promote quality management

    • Focus on customer/learner satisfaction

    • Encourage continuous improvement

Global Impact of ISO 29993

International Adoption

Countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East are implementing ISO 29993 to standardize non-formal education quality.

Industry Use Cases

 

    • Tech companies training employees

    • Language schools improving curriculum

    • NGOs upskilling community workers

Future of Non-Formal Education

Trends in E-Learning and Skills Development

 

    • Microlearning

    • Gamification

    • AI-powered education

ISO 29993 ensures these remain learner-focused and effective.

Lifelong Learning and ISO 29993

With frequent career changes, lifelong learning is essential. ISO 29993 ensures non-formal education is consistent, valuable, and trusted.

Conclusion

Education is evolving—and ISO 29993:2017 leads the way. Whether you’re a learner, a training provider, or a business leader, adopting this standard means you’re investing in quality, consistency, and continuous improvement. In a world full of online courses and training options, ISO 29993 is your compass to credible learning.

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