Prior Learning Assessment In Practice: Designing Effective Policies & Procedures

Description  Overview Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) has long been a tool for helping students accelerate their path to earning degrees. Recently, its importance has grown due to the increasing variety of learning opportunities outside traditional college settings and the diverse methods colleges can use to evaluate this learning. Particularly relevant for adult learners who are either seeking to advance in their current job, or switch careers, PLA offers a way to gain academic credentials quickly and cost-effectively. Colleges that recognize and credit the existing knowledge of these students in their chosen fields are more likely to attract and retain them. This webinar will focus on developing PLA policies and procedures that balance accessibility and fairness for students with the operational needs of college staff. Participants will learn about national best practices, resources for efficient policy development, essential elements of PLA programs, and related topics such as options for student grievances, training requirements for faculty assessors, and the possibility of evaluation fees to ensure program sustainability. Objectives Define the critical components of an effective Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) policy. Emphasize the necessity of a well-structured process flow plan in policy formulation. Identify and engage relevant stakeholders in the PLA policy development process. Locate and utilize national best practice examples for PLA policy creation. Who Should Attend College Administrators & Policy Makers: Those responsible for developing and implementing educational policies, particularly those focusing on adult education and credit recognition. Academic Advisors & Counselors: Professionals who guide adult learners in their educational journey, helping them to understand how their prior learning can be credited towards their degrees. Faculty Members & Assessors: Educators and evaluators who are involved in assessing prior learning and determining its relevance and equivalence to current academic programs. Continuing Education Professionals: Individuals working in adult education and lifelong learning programs who seek to understand how PLA can benefit their adult learners. Human Resources Professionals in Education Sector: HR personnel who need to understand the implications of PLA on staffing, training, and development. Student Affairs Professionals: Those who work directly with students, especially adult learners, in supporting their educational goals and addressing their unique needs. Education Policy Researchers & Analysts: Individuals studying trends in higher education and adult learning, looking to gain insights into PLA practices and their impact. Financial Planners in Education: Professionals who manage or advise on the financial aspects of educational programs, including the cost-benefit analysis of PLA. Any educator interested in learning more about PLA policies, best practices, and strategies to effectively integrate PLA into their institutions or practices, thereby enhancing the educational experience and success of adult learners