Welcome to the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Department at Nyandarua National Polytechnic! Our department is dedicated to recognizing and valuing the knowledge, skills, and experiences that individuals have acquired through formal, non-formal, and informal learning processes. Here’s what you need to know about us:
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Mission: Our mission is to provide pathways for individuals to obtain formal recognition and credit for their prior learning experiences, enabling them to accelerate their educational and career goals.
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What is RPL?: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), also known as Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), is a process through which individuals can demonstrate and receive recognition for the skills, knowledge, and competencies they have acquired outside of traditional educational settings.
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Benefits of RPL: RPL offers numerous benefits, including:
- Allowing individuals to obtain credits towards a qualification or certification without having to repeat learning they have already mastered.
- Providing opportunities for individuals to fast-track their education and training, saving time and money.
- Promoting inclusivity and diversity by recognizing the diverse range of learning experiences individuals bring to their education and careers.
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RPL Process: Our department facilitates the RPL process through a systematic assessment and validation of an individual’s prior learning experiences. This may involve:
- Self-assessment: Individuals reflect on their skills, knowledge, and experiences in relation to the learning outcomes of a specific qualification or certification.
- Documentation: Individuals compile evidence, such as portfolios, work samples, certifications, and testimonials, to support their claims of prior learning.
- Assessment: Trained assessors evaluate the evidence provided by the individual and determine the extent to which it aligns with the learning outcomes of the qualification or certification.
- Credit or Recognition: Based on the assessment, individuals may be granted credits towards a qualification, exemptions from specific courses, or formal recognition of their prior learning.
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Who Can Benefit from RPL?: RPL is suitable for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including:
- Adult learners returning to education after a hiatus.
- Working professionals seeking to upgrade their skills or obtain formal recognition for their expertise.
- Immigrants and refugees with skills and qualifications acquired outside their host country.
- Military personnel transitioning to civilian careers.
- Individuals with extensive work experience or informal learning in a particular field.
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Support and Guidance: Our RPL department provides support and guidance to individuals interested in pursuing recognition of their prior learning. Our trained staff are available to assist with the RPL process, answer questions, and provide resources to help individuals compile their evidence effectively.
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Continuing Education Opportunities: Recognizing prior learning is just the beginning. Once individuals have received recognition for their prior learning, they can continue their educational journey at Nyandarua National Polytechnic, building on their existing knowledge and skills to achieve their academic and career aspirations.
