Benefits of Recognition of Prior Learning

The benefits of RPL are mostly framed in terms of the impact on individual learners. However, they are not confined to learners per se; the effects are wide-ranging and bring positive benefits to educational institutions and to society. 

In this short paper, I will outline some of these benefits using findings from my PhD research (2019) available here.

Prior formal learning

One of the concerns about RPL is that learners who seek exemptions may not be prepared for higher education and, consequently, could slow down a class and require ongoing support. A Canadian study points out that students with RPL do well in higher education (Aarts et al., 2003).  68% of claimants had already participated in higher education programmes and attained minor awards before going on to complete degrees.

My primary research was consistent with these findings. I examined data from two higher education institutions' part-time degree programmes.  In one university 85% had completed courses in further education and training; 70% of the total degrees were awarded to students with exemptions in the second institution (Finn, J., 2019:103,107).  These data indicate that learners who opt to use RPL have extensive prior formal learning and are comparable to any student entering third level with a Leaving Certificate.

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