Prior learning refers to the knowledge, competencies, and skills acquired through formal and informal education outside a traditional academic environment or at the initiative of the individual learner. For example, if a current or potential student participated in an employee training program, military service, or took standardized exams such as…

The unique nature of 2020 had the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) focusing on creating more benchmarking changes in practice and policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and less on its surveys or other projects. However, they also engaged with the American Council on Education (ACE) in a large…

Prior learning assessment policies allow students to earn college credit for knowledge and experience gained outside of a classroom, which can accelerate their time to graduation. Research shows that students who receive Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit accumulate more credit and graduate more quickly and at higher rates than their peers who…

Active service members and veterans are pursuing postsecondary degrees in record numbers today, due in large part to the GI Bill education benefits that can cover much or all of the cost. An important tool for helping service members and veterans succeed in postsecondary education is prior learning assessment (PLA). PLA is a process that includes…

The use of a portfolio as an "alternative transcript" is discussed. Concepts explored include evaluation of prior learning, assessment of prior learning, rationale for developing a portfolio, and the articulation of verifiable learning outcomes with course and program objectives. (Author/MLW)

The new Continuing Education Unit as a quantitative measure of noncredit coursework is explained, and it is indicated how the college should consider CEU transcripts in assessing prior learning for credit. (Author)

The evaluation of training and education sponsored by the Armed Forces, business, and industry, as well as prior learning assessment has been standardized. One method of standardizing the transcripting of extrainstitutional education to increase its acceptance in traditional institutions is described. (Author/MLW)