Recognition of Prior Learning or RPL is the process for recognising learning that has come from experience and/or previous formal, non-formal and informal learning contexts. This includes knowledge and skills gained outside school, college and university, and outside formal learning situations such as through life and work experiences.
In 2014, QAA Scotland worked closely with the higher education sector to develop the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) National Framework for Scottish Higher Education. This RPL Framework was intended to support widening participation and workforce development. In 2022, the need to promote widening participation and support upskilling and reskilling remained a high priority.
In session 2021-22, the project reviewed and updated the RPL Framework to make it fit for the tertiary education sector.
Recognition of Prior Learning: Framework for Scotland
Publication date: 29 Nov 2022
This report is a revised version of the RPL National Framework for Scottish Higher Education, initially published in 2014. The review of the report focuses on supporting the further growth of RPL across the Scottish sector. The Framework firmly locates RPL within broader developments linked to a more flexible, accessible curriculum, enabling greater participation in HE by learners from a wide range of backgrounds.
| Author: |
QAA Scotland |
| Format: |
PDF |
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6.08 MB |
In session 2022-23, the key aim was to establish a Professional Learning Network that would be self-sustaining beyond the end of the Project. We also hosted a series of online workshops to support tertiary staff and students implementing and using RPL to develop, deliver and recognise more flexible and accessible learning.
Background resources
In session 2020-21, we undertook a scan of UK and international RPL practice. The report of this scan, and its executive summary, explore the differing terminology, processes, frameworks and support for RPL across the globe.
Recognition of prior learning: An international scan
Publication date: 03 Aug 2021
| Author: |
QAA Scotland |
| Format: |
PDF |
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0.68 MB |
Recognition of Prior Learning: An International Scan - Executive Summary
Publication date: 03 Aug 2021
| Author: |
QAAS |
| Format: |
PDF |
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0.13 MB |
Closer to home, QAA Scotland sought college and HEI practitioner views of RPL via a survey which explored the currency and use of the 2014 RPL Framework, terminology in use for RPL, and the benefits of RPL for institutions and students.
An additional survey of professional, statutory and regulatory bodies was undertaken to gauge the value of RPL for these organisations as well as the language in use. The findings of this survey are reported here together with a snapshot of accessibility
of RPL information on these professional body websites.
Recognition of Prior Learning in Scotland - Practitioner Perspective Survey
Publication date: 01 Sep 2022
A report of a survey of college and university practitioners to get their perspectives on recognition of prior learning (RPL) and the provision of micro-credentials.
| Author: |
QAAS |
| Format: |
PDF |
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0.22 MB |
Recognition of Prior Learning and Professional Bodies
Publication date: 01 Sep 2022
Results from a survey to explore awareness about recognition of prior learning among QAA PSRB Forum members.
| Author: |
QAAS |
| Format: |
PDF |
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0.28 MB |
Bitesize CPD Videos
During session 2022-23, we hosted a series of online workshops. These short, interactive, practically-focused sessions were aimed at practitioners in the tertiary sector who were seeking to learn more about various aspects of RPL.
Below you can find presentations from these workshops.
