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Recognition of prior learning

6 steps to applying for recognition of prior learning

Take a careful look at the course programme

Find out from your training provider how to apply for RPL

Make your application and pay the application fee

Have your evidence assessed

Get written notice of the outcome of your application

If unsuccessful, you may appeal the decision

: Once you sit down and work out what skills and knowledge you already have, you may find you have enough to get a qualification

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is recognising and gaining credit for what you have already learned, and the skills you have acquired from informal learning such as:

life experiences
work experiences
training courses or workshops.

Is recognition of prior learning of benefit to you?

If you have a lot of work or life experience in a particular industry or field, and you are thinking of enrolling in a course, then RPL could be an option for you.

The benefits of RPL are that you:

have your informal learning recognised
avoid studying topics you already know about
complete the course faster
pay less for the course.

How is recognition of prior learning assessed?

Prior learning is assessed in several ways. The most common ways are:

Portfolio

A portfolio involves compiling a file of evidence that relates to the learning outcome or unit standard you want credit for.
This is a popular method internationally. Some examples of evidence could be a report, a set of accounts, a product you have made, a drawing or an essay.

"For the unit standard I did on computer skills, I presented all the material I'd developed on the computer, and accessed it on the computer, and that was enough to show 'You must know what you are doing!'."

Tony Kuepfer, Tour Guide and Trainer

Attestation

Attestation is when someone who is knowledgeable and respected in your area of knowledge gives their word (either written or verbal) that you have the required learning in this area.
This person could be someone chosen by you, such as a client or employer. This is often used for demonstrating competency in te reo Māori.

Structured interview

This method involves you verbally explaining what you have done before an interview panel. You can usually have support people like whānau present as well.

Challenge assessment

This could be a practical demonstration, a written or oral test, or an assignment. A challenge assessment can be used when evidence from the other sources needs confirmation.

"One of the unit standards calls for you to identify tourism regions within New Zealand, and give a breakdown of their climate, historical facts, geography, attractions, and events in the area.

"I'd spend 13 years in Taranaki so I knew it very well. I was able to spout out that very successfully - even down to where you could stay and who the transport operators are."

Tony Kuepfer, Tour Guide and Trainer

What else is considered by tertiary providers in your application?

: Is your prior learning relevant and current?

To be awarded RPL, the learning must be current and relevant. For example, some tertiary providers require the learning to be gained in the last five years. The relevance can be important too, especially in relation to cultural, legal, social or professional practices. In this case, it may be important that you have worked or studied in a New Zealand context.

Each tertiary provider has a maximum amount of the qualification it can reward for RPL.

Each tertiary provider has its own RPL rules. It is best to check the provider’s website or contact them for more details.

What is accelerated assessment?

Accelerated assessment is slightly different from RPL. Accelerated assessment may be offered if you have prior learning but not enough evidence for the award of RPL. This means you enrol in the course and do the assessments before the course finishes, perhaps after a period of refresher learning.