Aim

RPL is a process that recognises what learners already know and can do regardless of whether this learning was achieved formally, informally or non-formally.

The Function of RPL is to

1.   Identify what the candidate knows and can do;

2.   Compare those skills and knowledge with the unit standard or qualification;

3.   Assess the candidate against these standards & requirements; and

4.   Credit the candidate where applicable.

The Process of RPL

1.        The applicant identifies the learning he/she wants to have evaluated;

2.        The assessor and the learner express the learning in specific outcomes that is relevant and appropriate for the 

        credits required;

3.        The applicant collects a Portfolio of Evidence (POE);

4.        The assessor evaluates the evidence procedure as well as the learner’s competence;

5.        The assessor(s) make(s) a recommendation about the learning and the amount of credit that should be given based

        on their evaluation and evidence that was produced;

6.        The assessor writes a report recommending whether the learner should be given credits/qualification;

7.     The assessor completes an Endorsement of Learning Results form and submits it to the Internal Moderator

        who validates the decision;

8.     The Internal Moderator submits Learner information and results to the ETQA; and

9.     The ETQA certifies the learner by uploading data onto the National Learner Record Database (NLRD).

Assessment

The assessment will be subject to the following principles:

1.        The application of NQF principles.

2.        The application of the principles of credible assessment.

3.        The application of the principles of the collection of and quality of the evidence.

4.        The assessment being planned and designed on the basis of understanding the requirements of the unit standard, 

        part qualification or qualification for which the learner is seeking credit.

5.        Sourcing types of evidence as suggested.

6.        The use of various methods and instruments mentioned.

7.        The application of the assessment process outlined.

8.        The application of moderation requirements.

Methods may include

1.        Interviews

2.        Portfolios

3.        Tests, integrative exams and/or projects

4.        Site visits

5.        Demonstration of learning outcomes underpinning a particular skill/set of skills

6.        Submission of assignments/projects

Responsibility

It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide proof/evidence of competence that he/she acquired through prior learning.

Appeals

Any learner wishing to appeal against either the assessment or accreditation decision must follow the appeals procedure as laid out in the Appeals Procedure document.

Awarding RPL Credits

1.        RPL credits should only be awarded where the learner can demonstrate his/her ability to apply foundational and practical competence in various contexts.

2.        Credits are awarded only for demonstrated competence, and not for exclusive work experience.

3.        Credits must be awarded only for learning that is relevant to the content and learning outcomes of the learning program or standards for which the credit is applied.

4.        Credit must be consistent with the achievement level required by the particular qualification.

5.        Credit must be awarded for learning that has foundational (theoretical), practical and reflexive applications that are appropriate to the learning programme or standards.