Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the generic term for learning assessment mechanisms such as Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) or Advanced Academic Standing, which are used within Higher Education Institutions to describe the awarding of credit/exemptions to applicants on the basis of demonstrated learning that has occurred prior to admission. The OECD (2008, p.50) reported that ‘demand for RPL is latent in Ireland and once employers and workers are well informed about RPL, interest is generally high’. Furthermore, Hunt (2011, p.55) stated that ‘RPL is particularly important as flexible and workplace learning opportunities expand. A national framework for RPL must be developed, based on the expertise and experience already built up in the higher education institutions. Progress in this regard will help to shift the emphasis from educational inputs towards learning outcomes. This student-centred philosophy lies at the heart of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).’ The Connacht Ulster Alliance (GMIT, IT Sligo and LYIT) initiated a project to inform, support and facilitate Irish or international applicants in applying for RPL to gain entry onto a programme or seek exemptions from parts of a programme. A dedicated web portal (www.myexperience.ie) was created to provide relevant information on RPL through short videos and text. The website defines the different mechanism of RPL assessment, provides details on the process and links to the CUA e-Portfolio tool. The actual e-Portfolio tool was created in Moodle 2.6 as this provides for assessment of learning. As a paperless tool, it provides an electronic submission of evidence and allows the learner to submit their portfolio in a sequence of stages resulting in the creation of a professional RPL portfolio. The e-Portfolio of evidence includes: certified learning; experiential learning; references; work experience outputs and motivational statements. The CUA e-Portfolio will be piloted from May to August 2014 in GMIT, LYIT and IT Sligo. This tool offers a national solution for RPL applicants and has the potential to provide for digital badges.

1. A collaborative initiative:
recognising prior learning with the
Connacht-Ulster Alliance
e-Portfolio application tool
Project Team:
Dr. Carina Ginty (GMIT) carina.ginty@gmit.ie
Oran Doherty (LyIT) oran.doherty@lyit.ie
Gavin Clinch (IT Sligo) clinch.gavin@itsligo.ie
www.myexperience.ie

2. Project Background
• Building on a SIF II Programme
• Connacht Ulster Alliance – 1st
Collaborative Project
• CUA (GMIT, IT Sligo and LYIT) initiated a project to inform,
support and facilitate Irish or international applicants in
applying for RPL to gain entry onto a programme or seek
exemptions from parts of a programme.

3. Project Outputs
• CUA RPL Policy
• Level 9 RPL Module (Staff Training
Programme/Learning & Teaching)
• CUA RPL Information Website
www.myexperience.ie
• CUA RPL e-Portfolio Application Tool
• Pilot Tools May-September 2014

4. What is RPL?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the
generic term for learning assessment
mechanisms such as Accreditation of Prior
Learning (APL) or Advanced Academic
Standing, which are used within Higher
Education to describe the awarding of credit /
exemptions to applicants on the basis of
demonstrated learning that has occurred prior
to admission.

5. Classifications of RPL?
1. Recognition of Prior Certified Learning
2. Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning

6. Why RPL?
Important element of EU policy for widening
access to qualifications and supporting LLL
In Ireland, the Qualifications Act 1999
established the right for an applicant to get
recognition for prior learning.

7. Background to RPL
The term ‘prior learning’ is learning that has
taken place, but not necessarily been assessed
or measured, prior to entering a programme
or seeking an award.
Prior learning may have been acquired through:
1. Formal routes
2. Non-formal routes (intentional)
3. Informal routes (non intentional)

8. What RPL can be used for?
• Access on to programme
• Advanced Entry
• Credits / Exemptions
• Awards

9. Challenges
• Lack of understanding by learners and
academics
• Idiosyncratic at each HEI (& within)
• Unnecessary Duplication
• Lack of resources in HEIs
• Threat?

10. Best Practice
• Comprehensive RPL Policy
• Trained staff
• Dedicated RPL personnel
• Tools in place (application forms, sample
portfolios, assessment tools etc..)

11. CUA RPL Information Website
www.myexperience.ie

12. CUA e-Portfolio Application Tool
Demonstration
Access by:
www.myexperience.ie
+
CUA e-Portfolio Tool

21. Next Steps
• Pilot evaluation
• Staff Training Programme – L9 award
• Industry Liaison
• Marketing & Promotion of CUA RPL
access/advanced entry pathway
• HE market drivers + enablers....

22. Potential of Tool
• Open up wider market for admissions
• Engage with employers, so employees can
document learning in employment and
receive recognition for this learning
• Engage with other HEIs

23. A collaborative initiative: recognising
prior learning with the Connacht-Ulster
Alliance e-Portfolio application tool
Project Team:
Dr. Carina Ginty (GMIT) carina.ginty@gmit.ie
Oran Doherty (LyIT) oran.doherty@lyit.ie
Gavin Clinch (IT Sligo) clinch.gavin@itsligo.ie
www.myexperience.ie