The key aim of Knowhow-expanded, KNOWHOW II, is to transfer a methodology called non-verbal learning, created in the Leonardo pilot project KnowHow, 2004- 2007, (www.knowhow.is).

Based on this methodology of learning, the Knowhow project created a 2 year study-line in ceramics which is currently taught at The Reykjavik School of Visual Art. The Knowhow methodology will be used as a basis for creating two new lines of 2 years in drawing and in textiles at art/VET school level.  The core of the Knowhow methodology is that tactile learning is an important and valuable learning method that gives each individual new possibilities, as well as the society as a whole. Through this tactile approach, professional connections are made between different sectors of art, design and craft. Tactile learning suits individuals who feel less at ease on the traditional academic learning paths.

These two study lines add a new dimension to art/VET education and offer an education possibility that will address the aim of the Icelandic Government, which is to decrease the 33%, EU record high drop-out rate to 10% by 2010.The project focuses on adapting the two new study lines to the European Qualification Framework (EQF). In most of the partners countries curriculum is based on the National Qualification Framework (NQF) which has been created by policy makers with reference to EQF. The goal of the Ministry of Education in Iceland is to have all curriculums on upper secondary level written in accordance with the NQF by …. This will implement the laws on upper secondary education which was passed through Icelandic parliament in June 2008. Knowhow–expanded will offer valuable experience in adapting curriculum to learning outcomes, based on EQF and will be a role model for other schools and policy makers in Iceland and Europe.

The two study lines will be built in collaboration with the partner schools based on need analyze from sectors in question. Two year diploma degree will be finished in IS enabling students to enter a final year in the partner schools and graduate with a BA-degree in one year. The partner schools in UK, DK and NO all have their programs on the fifth level according to EQF. The new study lines will be on level four. The project will therefore create a direct link between the fourth and fifth step in the EQF. A key factor is to develop and implement learning-outcome based system, which awards credit points to students. The system will function across borders and thus increase mobility and encourage transparency and quality of Art/VET education programmes in different European countries.

The partnerships consist of diverse educational Institutes and important stakeholders in IS. This will ensure the relevancy and quality of the project and give strong dynamics to the project. A platform between six schools will be created, where students and teachers are able to exchange experience and ideas between the schools and companies within the targeted sectors.