Analytic Quality Glossary

 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

 

Citation reference: Harvey, L., 2004–8, Analytic Quality Glossary, Quality Research International, http://www.qualityresearchinternational.com/glossary/

This is a dynamic glossary and the author would welcome any e-mail suggestions for amendments or additions.

 

 

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Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

 

core definition

Formal acknowledgement (based on professional assessment), by way of granting credit, of students' previous learning: credit is given towards a programme of study or towards professional body accreditation.

 

explanatory context

APL is different, bit often overlaps with Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL), as, for example in the definitions, below.

 

analytical review

HEFCE (2003) defines accreditation of prior learning (APL) as

A general term used for the award of credit on the basis of demonstrated learning that has occurred at some time in the past. This learning may have come about as the result of a course, or self-directed study, or as the result of experience either at work or in leisure pursuits.

 

The UNESCO definition is similar, although more prescriptive:

The process by which individuals are awarded credit toward qualifications based on their prior learning and (sometimes) experience (also called experiential learning). The credit is awarded upon clear evidence that the respective learning has resulted in the student’s having achieved the appropriate learning outcomes. (Vlăsceanu, et al., 2004)

 

CHEA (2001) has an almost identical definition (although implies it is a UK phenomenon):

(UK) A process by which individuals can claim and gain credit toward qualifications based on their prior learning and sometimes experience (often called experiential learning). Credit to be given where there is evidence that the experience or learning has resulted in the student achieving the appropriate and clearly expressed learning outcomes.

 

associated issues


related terms

see also

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL)

Recognition of prior learning

 

sources

Council For Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) 2001, Glossary of Key Terms in Quality Assurance and Accreditation, http://www.chea.org/international/inter_glossary01.html, updated  8 May 2001.

Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE ), 2003, About us: Glossary  http://www.hefce.ac.uk/glossary/glossary.htm Updated 3 January 2003.

Vlăsceanu, L.,  Grünberg, L., and Pârlea, D., 2004,  Quality Assurance and Accreditation: A Glossary of Basic Terms and Definitions (Bucharest, UNESCO-CEPES) Papers on Higher Education, ISBN 92-9069-178-6. http://www.cepes.ro/publications/Default.htm