RPL

In assessing learning accredited at another Higher Education Institute, the following information should be considered:

• Knowledge of the former institution.
• The previous academic record/transcript, including the name of the course or programme of study and NQAI level.
• Syllabus and course description, learning outcomes, number of contact hours, form of assessment(s). Where an application applies to a module(s), this information should be assessed for each module.
• Time elapsed since prior learning was achieved.
• Advances in the relevant field(s) of study.
• Does the learning relate to specific UCD modules?

In assessing applications relating to learning previously accredited at UCD, such applications are normally submitted as part of a transfer application where the modules do not automatically map to the programme a student is transferring into. Alternately, they may relate to UCD pre-modular achievement credits. In such cases, the following information should be considered:

• The official UCD transcript.
• Module/Course title, code and credit value.
• Grade/Mark awarded on completion of the module/course.
• Time elapsed since prior learning was achieved.
• Advances in the relevant field(s) of study.
• Does the learning relate to specific UCD modules in the new programme?

Applicants are advised of a number of approaches to mapping and assessing prior experiential learning in order to demonstrate learning outcomes. They are asked to provide information according to the following areas:

• Future learning plan and the role of RPL in this.
  • What is your main reason for considering third level education now and how best would RPL contribute to this?
• Life/work experience, including experience and skills gained through volunteerism/care work.
• Education details: second level and any subsequent education and training courses undertaken, including work-related training
• Other achievements, including awards or prizes or publications.

They are further advised that they may also be required to do one or more of the following:

1. Complete a portfolio of evidence,
2. Attend at an interview,
3. Undertake a simulation/practical exercise,
4. Undertake a diagnostic test(s),
5. Complete a piece of work or special assignment,
6. Produce an artefact.

In assessing experiential learning applications, the following questions should be considered:

• How much experience does the applicant have and in what roles?
• What is their identified skill set?
• What evidence is provided? What information is provided through references?
• What training have they attended and when?
• What learning outcomes have been met based on their prior learning?
• How relevant is their experience to the UCD programme of study (including specific modules)?
• To what extent do their learning outcomes apply to the current UCD programme of study (including specific modules on the current curriculum)?
• Does the learning relate to specific UCD core/option/elective modules?
• What period of time has elapsed since the prior learning was achieved?
• What advances have been made in the relevant field(s) of study?

Applicants should be informed of the RPL outcome/status of their application within four weeks of submission.

• Information on learning outcomes and levels of learning can be found on pages 71/72 of the Academic Regulations
• Information on module descriptors/programmes
• Recognition of Prior Learning Academic Policy
• Recognition of Prior Learning Guide for Applicants