Building on Experience: A Course in Recognition of Prior Learning. A Guide for Teachers and Tutors.

This course is designed to assist adults in documenting their prior experience, gaining an understanding of the policy and practices of recognition of prior learning (RPL), and then applying for RPL in either further education or employment. The 30-hour course is designed to be delivered over a series of weeks to allow time for students to reflect on their experiences, collect information from many sources, and process the information into career and study plans. Introductory materials include course aims and information on structuring and accrediting the course. Tutor notes address targeted learners, using the group process, required experience, and use of session plans. Detailed session notes are provided for 10 3-hour sessions. Components of the notes are as follows: the topic, session aim, competencies, outline of session with recommended time allotment, resource list, detailed tutor notes (lesson plans), learning activities, student handouts, and assessment tasks. Session topics include the following: building the group; identifying life values; a good experience; learning from experience; profiling skills; career planning; planning training needs; matching skills and competencies; applying for RPL; and RPL interview. Appendixes include a list of course competencies; assessment tasks, and a tutor checklist. Contains 21 references. (YLB)