People Involved:

Raksha Bhalsod

Tags:

Raksha Bhalsod   accreditation   experiential learning   2006/7   2007/8  

Project Outputs:

 Project Sheet 48.39 Kb

Summary

Accreditation of prior learning can fall under a range of headings (APL, APCL, APEL etc) although a common umbrella term is AP(E)L.  The underlying principle of AP(E)L is that previous learning can be accredited within a formal framework.  Credit is not given for life experiences alone but for what they have learnt from these experiences and therefore is not a ‘soft option' (Heeks, 2003).  Under the umbrella term of AP(E)L a distinction is made between  APCL (Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning) which is formalized learning  previously assessed by a recognized institution (and is well established as a practice ) and APEL which enables candidates to reflect on experiences outside formal educational systems and to achieve credits for learning based on these experiences.