Recognition of Prior Learning
- What is RPL?
- What is Prior Learning?
- How is Prior Learning accredited at IT Sligo?
- How do I apply for an exemption?
- What about non-accredited learning?
- What is the deadline for applying for an exemption?
- How can RPL help me gain admission onto a stage of a programme?
- What is the Application Procedure?
- What are the Fees?
- Who should I contact for more information?
What is RPL?
RPL refers to the process by which the prior learning is given a value or is recognised formally. The value/recognition can take the form of accreditation, exemptions or admission to a programme of study.
IT Sligo have in place, policies and procedures to facilitate Recognition of Prior Learning in terms of exemptions, including accreditation and admission purposes.
Back to topWhat is Prior Learning?
This refers to learning that has taken place prior to commencement on a programme of study. Prior learning is categorised into two types of learning:
Accredited Learning: Learning that has taken place in a formal learning environment which has resulted in a qualification or certification. Examples include such awards as Higher Certificate in Business Studies accredited by HETAC, Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Studies awarded by IT Sligo or Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Analytical Chemistry awarded by UCD.
Non- Accredited Learning: There are two sub-categories of non-accredited learning:
Non-formal Learning: Learning that was intentional by the learner but has not resulted in formal accreditation or certification. Examples of non-formal learning may include training courses undertaken in the workplace, voluntary/community sector and/or trade union.
Informal Learning: This is often referred to as ‘experiential learning’ because it refers to learning that has come about through work and life experiences. Often it is learning that is unintentional and the learner may not recognise at the time of the experience that it contributed to his or her knowledge, skills and competence. Examples of this type of learning include skills and knowledge achieved through ‘on the job’ work experience. It is important to understand that it is not the experience per se that is being recognised in the RPL process but the learning that has taken place as a result of the experience. Therefore the learner must be able to identify, articulate and provide evidence of specific learning outcomes in compiling a learning portfolio which will be subject to assessment by the course specialists.
How is Prior Learning accredited at IT Sligo?
In the case of prior learning that has already been accredited (i.e. you may already have completed a similar module at the same level in another college or within another programme at IT Sligo), no further credits will be awarded for that learning. If the application for exemption is successful the learner will be granted an exemption only. Where exemptions are granted, your grade average and award level, where relevant will be determined on basis of only those modules that were assessed through the standard assessment process.
How do I apply for an exemption?
You may seek an exemption on the basis of prior accredited learning based on the fact that you have successfully completed the same or similar module in another programme of study elsewhere (or even in the same college). You must complete application form and provide details and evidence of your relevant prior learning on which you are basing your application. Evidence required is transcript of results, course syllabus, module descriptors, copies of certificates etc.
Fee to accompany an application for exemption on the basis of prior accredited learning is €80 per exemption sought.
What about non-accredited learning?
Applicants seeking exemptions on the basis of non-accredited (non-formal or experiential learning) learning will be required to compile a Learning Portfolio that clearly demonstrates and provides evidence of learning achieved, relevant module they are seeking an exemption from.
Applicants must first of all contact the RPL facilitator in the relevant school to obtain guidelines, application forms and information on compiling a portfolio.
What is the deadline for applying for an exemption?
Applications for exemptions must be received by
- 15th September for modules taught in semester one and full year modules
- 15th January for modules taught in semester two
- Three weeks prior to date of commencement for modules taught outside of semester framework.
Recommendation for those completing a learning portfolio
Applicants making an application for RPL on the basis of experiential learning are advised to begin the process of compiling a learning portfolio at a much earlier stage than the above deadlines in order to ensure your completed portfolio is submitted in time to meet the above deadlines.
How can RPL help me gain admission onto a stage of a programme?
An applicant who does not meet the stated entry requirements of a programme of study at IT Sligo may make an application to have their prior non-accredited learning assessed for the purpose of determining suitability for admission to a programme of study.
The entry requirements for admission to a programme of study are usually based on prescribed prior relevant qualifications or relevant work experience or a combination of both. Entry requirements can be found in the approved programme prospectus.
What is the Application Procedure ?
RPL applicants will be required to submit a learning portfolio demonstrating and providing evidence of how they have met the required level of knowledge, skill and competence for entry to the programme of study they are applying for. Contact the RPL Facilitator who will provide you with the RPL criteria that you must base your portfolio on. Click here for template document.
What are the Fees?
RPL applications for admissions (based on a learning portfolio) must be accompanied by a non-refundable fee.
Who should I contact for more information?
College of Business and Humanities
Jennifer Van Aswegen
RPL Facilitator
IT Sligo
Phone: 071 91 37216
Email: vanaswegen.jennifer@itsligo.ie
School of Engineering
Louise O’Gorman
RPL Facilitator
Phone: 071 91 37240
Email: ogorman.louise@itsligo.ie
School of Science
Louise O’Gorman
RPL Facilitator
Email: ogorman.louise@itsligo.ie
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