Prior Learning Credit
Prior Learning Credit is a way to give students academic credit for knowledge and skills they've gained through work experience, military service, or other life experiences. It helps students avoid repeating coursework for things they already know, saving them time and money in their education. This process is sometimes called "credit for prior learning," "experiential learning credit," or "life experience credit." It's particularly important in vocational training and adult education programs where students often come with significant real-world experience.
Examples in Resumes
Evaluated student applications for Prior Learning Credit and awarded credits based on work experience
Developed assessment criteria for Credit for Prior Learning in vocational programs
Managed Prior Learning Assessment processes for over 200 students annually
Created guidelines for awarding Experiential Learning Credit in technical programs
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 vocational school?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating assessment standards, building evaluation processes, training staff, ensuring compliance with accreditation requirements, and measuring program success.
Q: How do you handle complex cases where work experience doesn't clearly match course requirements?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for evaluating non-traditional experience, working with faculty to determine equivalencies, and documenting decisions for consistency.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What documentation do you require from students for prior learning assessment?
Expected Answer: Should mention portfolios, work samples, certificates, employment verification, and methods to verify authenticity of submissions.
Q: How do you ensure consistency in credit awards across different assessors?
Expected Answer: Should discuss standardized rubrics, regular calibration meetings, documentation practices, and quality control measures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic steps in evaluating a prior learning credit application?
Expected Answer: Should outline the process of receiving applications, checking completeness, verifying documentation, and coordinating with subject matter experts.
Q: How do you explain the prior learning credit process to students?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to clearly communicate requirements, timeline, and documentation needs to students in simple terms.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of credit evaluation processes
- Student advising and communication
- Document processing and verification
- Basic knowledge of educational policies
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed knowledge of assessment methods
- Experience with multiple types of prior learning evaluation
- Ability to train others in assessment processes
- Strong understanding of accreditation requirements
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and management
- Policy creation and implementation
- Staff supervision and training
- Strategic planning for credit assessment programs
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of understanding of accreditation requirements
- Poor documentation practices
- Inability to explain assessment criteria clearly
- No experience with student advising or counseling
- Limited knowledge of different assessment methods
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