Prior Learning Assessment
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a process used in adult education where educators evaluate knowledge and skills that students have gained outside of traditional classrooms. This could include work experience, military service, volunteer work, or self-study. Think of it as giving credit for life experience. It helps adult students earn credits faster and avoid repeating courses on topics they already know well. Similar terms include Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), or Prior Learning Recognition (PLR). This approach is particularly important in community colleges and universities that serve working adults.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted over 200 Prior Learning Assessment interviews with adult learners
Developed Prior Learning Assessment rubrics for the Business Administration program
Led Recognition of Prior Learning evaluations for military veterans
Streamlined the Credit for Prior Learning process, increasing student completion rates by 30%
Trained faculty in Prior Learning Recognition methods and documentation
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 a new Prior Learning Assessment program for a department?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in creating assessment standards, training faculty, developing documentation processes, and working with academic departments to align assessments with course outcomes.
Q: How do you ensure consistency in PLA evaluations across different assessors?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standardized rubrics, regular calibration meetings, documentation requirements, and quality assurance processes.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to assess prior learning?
Expected Answer: Should mention portfolio assessment, standardized tests, interviews, skill demonstrations, and documentation review, with examples of when each method is most appropriate.
Q: How do you handle a student who disagrees with their PLA outcome?
Expected Answer: Should describe appeal processes, documentation practices, and professional communication with students about assessment decisions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What documentation would you require from a student for a PLA review?
Expected Answer: Should list basic requirements like resumes, certificates, work samples, and letters of verification from employers.
Q: Explain the difference between formal and informal learning in PLA context.
Expected Answer: Should differentiate between structured education (courses, training programs) and unstructured learning (work experience, self-study).
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of adult learning principles
- Documentation review and organization
- Student advising and communication
- Basic assessment tools usage
Mid (2-5 years)
- Portfolio assessment
- Interview techniques
- Multiple assessment methods
- Student appeals handling
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development
- Assessment policy creation
- Staff training and development
- Quality assurance implementation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience working with adult learners
- Lack of understanding of assessment methods
- Poor documentation practices
- Inability to explain evaluation criteria clearly
Related Terms
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