What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
If you’ve completed previous education and are now preparing to pursue another certificate or qualification, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Similarly, if you have professional experience in the industry, you might already possess some skills or competencies required for certain aspects of your accredited training qualification, that may be covered under RPL.
In this article, we discuss what RPL is and how it works, types of evidence you may need to provide to determine RPL, as well as, Your Learning Portal’s RPL process.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
How Do RPL Work?
Evidence Required for Determining RPL
Your Learning Portal RPL Process
Conclusion
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that assesses your formal, non-formal and informal learning, used to determine the extent to which you meet the requirements for each unit of competency within your accredited training qualification.
1. Formal Learning
Formal learning refers to structured learning undertaken in established educational institutions, such as, schools, universities, colleges and more. This type of learning is typically recognised through certificates, qualifications and diplomas.
2. Non-formal Learning
Non-formal learning occurs in less structured environments, such as, workshops, seminars, webinars or other professional development activities. While documentation may be available, such as an attendance certificate, it does not carry the same official recognition as formal learning.
3. Informal Learning
Informal learning refers to knowledge gained through everyday life experiences, not within a formal or professional development setting. This could look like learning a new skill in your workplace or picking up information during casual conversations. Informal learning does not produce tangible evidence of your learning, like certificates or formal records do.
Being awarded RPL can fast-track your qualification. If eligible, you may not need to complete certain units of competency in your qualification, as you’ve already gained the necessary knowledge or skills previously.
How Does RPL Work?
When an individual applies for an accredited training qualification, they should inform their RTO on the possibility of being eligible for RPL.
A staff member will work with the individual to decide the level of RPL in which they are entitled to, prior to commencing their qualification.
From here, the trainer will be able to create a specialised study plan for the student, in which does not include the units of competencies already achieved and covered, as part of the RPL process.
Evidence Required for Determining RPL
During the RPL assessment process, you’ll need to provide evidence that supports your claim for RPL.
This evidence helps the trainer map your knowledge and skills to each unit of competency within your chosen qualification.
Typical evidence may include, but is not limited to:
Graduation certificate
Academic transcript
Journal articles or other publication that you have wrote
Reference letter from current employer
Updated resume outlining your learning and work experience
Other supporting documents, including images or videos that demonstrate your skills in a professional setting
Your Learning Portal RPL Process
Your Learning Portal offers two accredited training qualifications for which RPL can be assessed. These being:
CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support
When applying for these certificates, you should inform a staff member that you may be eligible for RPL.
A trainer will organise a meeting, in which you will be required to provide supporting evidence used to assess and discuss your eligibility. It is likely that the trainer will ask you a series of questions about your educational and industry background to better understand your level of competency. During this process, you may also be required to undertake a small series of assessments (practical or written) to help support the trainer’s final decision.
If successful, the trainer will provide you with a RPL Study Plan, which is a modified learning itinerary, outlining all units of competency you will be undertaking in your qualification, excluding those covered by RPL. Generally, this study plan provides you a shortened learning experience, however, this is not guaranteed due to the pace in which each individual learns may differ.
Getting Started…
RPL is a process introduced to recognise the hard work and experience of those in the industry. If eligible, it can have great benefits to your study and assist you in gaining qualification sooner.
If you are ready to undertake your CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) or CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support, click the apply button below.
We are always available to answer any questions you may have and provide any assistance needed. Click here to contact us.