Prior Learning Assessment
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a process used in colleges and universities to evaluate and give credit for knowledge and skills that students gained outside of traditional classroom settings. This could be from work experience, military service, volunteer work, or independent study. It helps adult learners save time and money by avoiding courses covering material they already know. Sometimes called Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), this process is becoming increasingly important as more working adults return to college to complete their degrees.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted over 200 Prior Learning Assessment evaluations for adult learners
Developed standardized rubrics for Credit for Prior Learning evaluations
Led training workshops on Recognition of Prior Learning processes for faculty
Managed the Prior Learning Assessment program resulting in 30% increase in adult student enrollment
Created guidelines for PLA portfolio evaluation across multiple departments
Typical job title: "Prior Learning Assessment Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Prior Learning Assessment Specialists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop and implement a new Prior Learning Assessment program at our institution?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in program development, knowledge of accreditation requirements, faculty engagement strategies, and understanding of assessment methods. Should mention stakeholder collaboration, policy development, and program evaluation plans.
Q: How do you ensure consistency and fairness in PLA evaluations across different departments?
Expected Answer: Should discuss standardized rubrics, faculty training, regular calibration sessions, documentation procedures, and quality assurance measures. Should also mention experience with appeals processes and maintaining academic standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to evaluate different types of prior learning?
Expected Answer: Should describe various assessment methods like portfolio review, standardized tests, challenge exams, and industry certifications. Should demonstrate understanding of matching assessment methods to different types of learning experiences.
Q: How do you guide students through the PLA process?
Expected Answer: Should explain student advising approaches, documentation requirements, portfolio development support, and how to help students articulate their learning experiences in academic terms.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is Prior Learning Assessment and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of evaluating non-classroom learning for college credit, benefits to adult students, and common types of prior learning that can be assessed.
Q: How do you determine if someone's experience qualifies for college credit?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of learning outcomes, documentation requirements, and basic assessment criteria. Should mention working with faculty and following institutional policies.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of PLA processes
- Student advising and support
- Documentation review
- Basic portfolio evaluation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Multiple assessment methods
- Faculty collaboration
- Portfolio development guidance
- Program coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and management
- Policy creation and implementation
- Training and supervising evaluators
- Quality assurance oversight
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience working with adult learners
- Lack of understanding of academic credit systems
- Poor documentation and organization skills
- No knowledge of assessment methods
- Unfamiliarity with higher education policies and procedures
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