A collaborative initiative: recognising prior learning with the Connacht-Ulster Alliance
e-Portfolio application tool
Project Team:Dr. Carina Ginty (GMIT) [email protected] Oran Doherty (LyIT) [email protected] Gavin Clinch (IT Sligo) [email protected]
www.myexperience.ie
Project Background• Building on a SIF II Programme
• Connacht Ulster Alliance – 1st Collaborative Project
• CUA (GMIT, IT Sligo and LYIT) initiated a project to inform, support and facilitate Irish or international applicants in applying for RPL to gain entry onto a programme or seek exemptions from parts of a programme.
Project Outputs
• CUA RPL Policy
• Level 9 RPL Module (Staff Training Programme/Learning & Teaching)
• CUA RPL Information Website www.myexperience.ie
• CUA RPL e-Portfolio Application Tool
• Pilot Tools May-September 2014
What is RPL?Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the generic term for learning assessment mechanisms such as Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) or Advanced Academic Standing, which are used within Higher Education to describe the awarding of credit / exemptions to applicants on the basis of demonstrated learning that has occurred prior to admission.
Classifications of RPL?
1. Recognition of Prior Certified Learning
2. Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning
Why RPL?
Important element of EU policy for widening access to qualifications and supporting LLL
In Ireland, the Qualifications Act 1999 established the right for an applicant to get recognition for prior learning.
Background to RPLThe term ‘prior learning’ is learning that has
taken place, but not necessarily been assessed or measured, prior to entering a programme or seeking an award.
Prior learning may have been acquired through:
1. Formal routes
2. Non-formal routes (intentional)
3. Informal routes (non intentional)
What RPL can be used for?
• Access on to programme• Advanced Entry• Credits / Exemptions• Awards
Challenges
• Lack of understanding by learners and academics
• Idiosyncratic at each HEI (& within)• Unnecessary Duplication• Lack of resources in HEIs• Threat?
Best Practice
• Comprehensive RPL Policy• Trained staff• Dedicated RPL personnel• Tools in place (application forms, sample
portfolios, assessment tools etc..)
CUA RPL Information Websitewww.myexperience.ie
CUA e-Portfolio Application Tool Demonstration
Access by:
www.myexperience.ie
+
CUA e-Portfolio Tool
Next Steps
• Pilot evaluation
• Staff Training Programme – L9 award
• Industry Liaison
• Marketing & Promotion of CUA RPL access/advanced entry pathway
• HE market drivers + enablers....
Potential of Tool
• Open up wider market for admissions
• Engage with employers, so employees can document learning in employment and receive recognition for this learning
• Engage with other HEIs
A collaborative initiative: recognising prior learning with the Connacht-Ulster
Alliance e-Portfolio application tool
Project Team:Dr. Carina Ginty (GMIT) [email protected] Oran Doherty (LyIT) [email protected] Gavin Clinch (IT Sligo) [email protected]
www.myexperience.ie
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