Recognition of Prior Learning

How does RPL work?

1. Skills and competencies assessment

   We discuss what your goals are and help you choose the right qualification that matches your skills for recognition of prior learning(RPL) and show you whatyou need to do to achieve your goals

2. Evidence Portfolio

   Gather evidence such as:current resume, reference letters, work examples/samples, photos/videos, certificates and transcripts and overseas qualifications andlearning experiences.

3. Skills and competencies Check

   Once RPL assessors have gone through your portfolio,they will call you in for a competency conversation and a practical observation, if required.

4. Qualified/Issuance of Certificate

   All certificates are Nationally Recognized and issued by a Qualifications Awarding Institution Accredited by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority(KNOA).

What is the RPL assessment process?

RPL assessment processes and procedures may consist of the following stages:

• Counselling and facilitation;
• Establishing the purpose of the assessment;
• Identify the evidene required;
• Using appropriate evidence gathering a judgement;
• Interpreting evidence gathering methods;
• Recording the outcome;
• Reporting to key stakehoders;
• Successful candidate issued with Certificate;
• Appeal process;

How do I know am eligible for RPL?

If you have solid experience and knowledge in your field of work acquired outside informal and non-formal learning setups,then you are eligible to attain arelated qualification via RPL. RPL will recognise your experience and overseas qualification with a nationally recognised qualification and fill in any skills gapsyou have.

What does RPL involve?

There are three main areas that are considered during an RPL process:

1. Existing work experience: The practical work experience you have gained to date may have provided you with solid skills and knowledge that are ofrelevance to a course of study. Work experience may be informal, formal, full time, part time, voluntary or paid.
2. Existing qualifications: You may have completed educational courses that have provided you with knowledge and understanding that is of relevance to thecourse of study. For example, if you have another course or unit, this may count as credit toward a different qualification.
3. Life skills and experience: Your general life experiences and the skills you have developed over time may also count toward the qualification you wish to complete.

Portfolio or Evidence Collection Assessment

What is a portfolio?

A portfolio is a detailed document developed by the student which identifies the learning acquired,through work and life experience,which may be equivalent to the learning outcomes in a College course(s). The portfolio describes the learning achieved from prior experience,relates the learning toward specific course/program requirements and verifies the learning through documentation or proof of learning.The student may be required to provide additional proof of learning and/or participate in an interview as part of the portfolio assessment process.
NOTE:For some courses, students may be required to prove prior learning through an Evidence Collection. This is a compilation of specific documentation identified by faculty as required to prove prior learning for the course's learning outcomes.

Where can a student get assistance to develop a portfolio?

• The RPL Advisor assists with the portfolio development process and can provide the Portfolio Development Resource Guide.
• Program faculty in specific College programs may provide advice and or clarification.
• Students may complete a specific Portfolio Development workshop/course.
• Students should contact the RPL Advisor for assistance with the portfolio development process and to use the Portfolio Development Resource Guide.

What fees are associated with portfolios?

A fee is charged for each course portfolio submitted for assessment. A student must be enrolled in a RTP program/course,complete the Portfolio Assessmentform and pay the application fee. Please see the institution website for the RPL Fee Range Guidelines.

Who assesses the portfolio(s) and/or evidence collection(s)?

Portfolios or evidence collections are assessed by RPL Assessor. This is usually an instructor who has subject matter expertise and has recent experience teaching the course. All Assessors who assess portfolios have access to RPL information, advice, and guidance in portfolio assessment through the RPL Services office.The assessors complete the Portfolio Assessment form and share results of the assessment with the student.The form is signed by the RPL Coordinator and recorded in the student information system.

What are the sample evidence required for assessment?

• Candidate's C.V. outlining specific job positions and how they relate to specific skills requirements;
• Letters of recommendation where applicable;
• Sample(s) of candidate's work and products:
• Videos and/or photographs of work activities;
• Skills logbooks;
• Details of formal training, records of seminars, conferences and workshops attended,resume and performance appraisals;
• Testimonials from current or previous employers and customers;
• Completed performance reviews;
• Interview/professional conversation;
• Job descriptions.