Australian Catholic University (ACU) supports an approach which values all learning, however achieved, through an open and transparent approach to assessment. It acknowledges that learning may be achieved through either non-formal or informal pathways, and that provision should exist for recognition of these. Accordingly, this policy for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) provides for:
In this policy and procedures the following meanings apply:
RPL: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process for recognising relevant non-formal and informal learning by collecting evidence and making judgments on the extent to which an individual has achieved the required learning outcomes, competency outcomes or standards for entry to and/or partial or total completion of a qualification.
Assessment: A process that identifies the purpose and the evidence required, provides a range of ways for students to demonstrate that they have achieved the required outcomes, makes judgments based on the evidence provided and records and reports the assessment findings.
Formal Learning: The attainment of formal qualifications or part thereof for study undertaken at anaccredited education provider within the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Non-Formal learning: Relevant skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through non-accredited study with a provider other than a university or accredited education provider. It includes education or training provided through employer-based programs and professional bodies.
Informal Learning: Learning acquired in an informal context, such as through work and/or life experiences.
Learning or competency outcomes: A learning or competency outcome that a learner should know and/or be able to do as a result of being involved in a learning process. The learning should indicate a conceptual as well as a practical grasp of the knowledge or competency required and be applicable outside the environment in which it was acquired.
This policy and procedures will be applied subject to the Academic Regulations.
RPL may be used:
It is necessary to compare the non-formal or informal learning the individual has achieved against the learning outcomes or performance criteria required for:
5.1 Heads of School, or equivalent, will nominate a member/s of academic staff such as a Course Coordinator, hereafter referred to as the RPL Advisor, to provide applicants with advice on RPL processes and the formulation of their application.
5.2 The specific responsibilities of the RPL Advisor in this regard are to:
5.3 An applicant may be provided with an initial consultation of up to one hour to assist in the preparation of an application. If the consultation needs to be extended, this will attract an hourly charge.
6.1 Assessment for RPL will:
6.2 The processes for RPL are designed to:
6.3 The criteria to be employed when assessing prior non-formal or informal learning will ensure that consistent standards are maintained across the University.
6.4 If credit is granted on the basis of RPL, it may take the form of specified credit, block credit or unspecified credit, in accordance with the Academic Regulations.
6.5 Eligibility for credit does not guarantee a place in any course for which credit may be granted.
Unless the Head of School, or equivalent, otherwise approves on the basis of evidence of subsequent development and life or work experience in the discipline, credit granted will lapse if the program is not completed within ten years from the date of completion of the study or learning on the basis of which credit is granted.
Page last updated: 2017-06-26
Short url: https://handbook.acu.edu.au/750205
Page last updated: 2017-06-26
Short url: https://handbook.acu.edu.au/750205