In early November 2023, as part of the DECIDE project implemented by GIZ, a workshop convened where experts Elido Bandelj and Professor Dr. Miomir Despotović presented essential instructions for ensuring the quality implementation of the recognition of prior learning (RPL) procedure.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) serves as an alternative means of acquiring qualifications based on existing knowledge and skills obtained outside formal education systems. It offers an opportunity to assess and recognize knowledge and skills acquired through various training programmes, life experiences, and work experience, ultimately leading to a certificate confirming acquired competences or qualifications.
To assist schools and candidates interested in obtaining qualifications or partial qualifications through RPL, the following instructions were developed within this project:
Instructions for implementing RPL in schools - this guide targets members of the school team involved in RPL, such as advisors and assessors, helping them organize and execute an objective and efficient procedure for recognizing learning outcomes and competencies acquired through non-formal and informal learning. The instruction is structured to support team members in providing necessary assistance to candidates throughout the entire RPL process: decision-making on participation; objective self-assessment of acquired knowledge and through previous life and work experience; compiling a portfolio of evidence; preparing for portfolio review and evaluation; and preparing for examination to assess learning outcomes and competencies.
Instructions for preparing forms for PPU for candidates – instruction is intended for individuals interested in obtaining a qualification or partial qualification through RPL. It is designed to help candidates in completing self-assessment forms for knowledge, skills and competences; compiling valid evidence portfolios; and preparing for examinations to assess competencies not sufficiently evidenced through portfolios.
The workshop was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Office for Dual Education and the National Qualifications Framework, schools with approved publicly recognised organiser of adult education activities status (PROAEA) for RPL, the Qualifications Agency, and the Institute for the Improvement of Education, among others.