Developing the criteria to evaluate previous work experience for credit

Abstract

LEARNING OUTCOME: To examine criteria used in a dietetic technology program to determine credit for previous work experience.In a region with limited health care resources, Purdue University Calumet is increasingly challenged to provide quality supervised practice experiences for dietetic technology students. Since many students who enroll in the program are currently working in health care or the related food service industry, the program wanted to give credit for previous work experiences. The difficulty, however, was determining how to effectively evaluate these experiences in relationship to dietetic performance requirements, clock hours and course credit. A policy to ensure that all students are treated equally, a criteria checklist, performance requirements and dietetic practice areas forms, with functions and frequency, were developed and will be shared. The use of this system has alleviated repetitious experiences for many students and increased availability of quality supervised practice experiences for all students enrolled in the program.