Definition of a unit

A unit is the smallest part of a qualification that can be separately certificated.  It is made up of learning outcomes and assessment criteria with a title, credit value and level.

All units must be developed to be capable of assessment independently of any other unit.

Each unit must be allocated a level that represents the complexity of the subject and the degree of autonomy that a learner will demonstrate in order to achieve it.  The level is determined by comparing the learning outcomes and assessment criteria against the QCF level descriptors. (CQFW Framework Diagram).

The credit value of the unit indicates the number of credits that will be awarded to a learner achieving all the learning outcomes.  This will be based on one credit for those learning outcomes achievable in 10 hours of learning.  Learning time is defined as the time taken by learners, at the level of the unit, on average, to complete the learning outcomes of the unit to the standard shown in the assessment criteria. Exceeding the requirements expressed in the assessment criteria does not result in a learner being awarded more credits as the credit value is fixed before assessment.