RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)

When considering a claim for RPL, the assessor will make an assessment of the evidence of learning against the following criteria:

• Validity – where there is a suitable match between the evidence presented and the learning being demonstrated, and the evidence is valid and reliable.
• Sufficiency – where there is sufficient evidence to fully demonstrate the achievement of the learning claimed.
• Authenticity – whether the applicant actually completed what is claimed in the submission, and that the evidence is authentic.

As part of the RPL assessment process, assessors will also consider:

• Whether the learning claimed is clearly articulated in terms of outcomes.
• How closely the learning claimed relates to the applied programme.
• Whether the applicant has identified the units from which they would like to claim an exemption.
• Whether there is evidence that the learning outcomes of these units have already been met through prior learning.
• Whether the learning claimed is at a comparable level to that of the applied programme.
• Whether there is sufficient evidence for the outcomes claimed.

The following assessment methods can be used to assess evidence in order to demonstrate prior
learning:

• Practical demonstration or task.
• Completion of a piece of work along with a reflective account of the learning achieved.
• Presentation of a product.
• Submission of a portfolio of evidence or an e-portfolio.
• A face-to-face interview or oral discussion, which could be used to establish the currency of certificated evidence.

RPL assessment as above, applies to both formal learning (where formal learning and credits/qualification have been awarded) and informal learning (where prior learning is non-certificated or no credits have been awarded for relevant skills and knowledge).

Stages

Stage 1 – Initial enquiries
Will include an initial interview with the RPL Adviser to discuss whether the applicant has relevant prior learning.

Stage 2 – Providing advice
Advice on documentary requirements provided.

Stage 3 – Formal application

• Complete the RPL application form.
• Assist with the preparation of evidence, e.g., portfolio and mapping process.
• Map prior achievements against the requirements of the unit for which prior learning is being claimed.
• Gather evidence to demonstrate achievements.
• Submit documented evidence, e.g., in portfolio form.

Stage 4 – Assessing prior learning and authorizing the claim

• Evidence assessed by the assessor within the context of the particular learning outcomes for the unit.
• Moderation of the claim (where appropriate).
• Record of mapping and recommendation.
• Approval of recommendation by the Course/Programme Coordinator.

Stage 5 – Processing outcomes and recording

• Submission of assessment outcome to the Assessment Board for approval of credits awarded.
• Record of RPL credit on the learner’s record.

Stage 6 – Informing and providing feedback to the applicant

• The assessment decision is notified to the learner, with feedback provided (whether the claim is accepted or rejected), along with information on the next steps.