Experienced WorkersDenyce Diakun, M.Ed

Recognition of Prior Learning

Algonquin has a commitment to embracing an increasingly diverse student population and reducing barriers to college education

A key pillar in this foundation is recognizing learner’s prior experiential learning

Algonquin assigned personnel to champion the RPL PROCESS

What we know

RPL motivates people to return to formal education and training

RPL improves learner confidence, self esteem and motivation to learn

What we know

The levels of participation in RPL are not as great as one would have anticipated

People seeking higher levels of qualifications participate in RPL as opposed to people who have faced barriers in their formal education

Providing service for:

newcomers just arrivingthose out of work for the first time in a long

timeyoung adults out of workthose in mid-life malaise those wishing to re-enter the workforce

Intake and Referral SystemEstablished an enhanced, client-centric intake referral

processProvide single point of contact and follow-up for

candidatesGather information prior to enrolment

Provide support in identifying goals and utilizing existing College services to enable the client to achieve themMaintain liaison with client to build longer term

relationship and retention support

The Approach:Self Understanding; interests, abilities, work

values, and personality characteristics Empowerment; to overcome any personal

sense of powerlessnessUnderstanding the environment (Who needs

people like you?)Aristotle said “Where your talents and the world’s needs

meet – there lies your vocation.”

The Approach;

Understand the role of RPL in their career development

Develop benchmarks that allow the candidate to succeed

Assessment processes are valid for what is being assessed and fair for who is being assessed

Assessment Process

Assessment processes are valid for what is being assessed and fair for who is being assessed

Encouraged to recognize their strengths and capitalize on transferable skills

Future DirectionGet unstuckRealize untapped potential Increase the chances of getting a new position

that aligns with strengths and valuesProvide tools for managing and developing

oneselfProvide a fresh approach essential for

navigating the rest of one’s life

Essential Skills for Today’s Economy

Career development is the responsibility of the individual

Need to develop and manage oneself on a continual basis

Learning is continual and formal

Future Directions

"Knowledge workers are likely to outlive their employing organization. Their average working life is likely to be fifty years.” Drucker