Development and Implementation of RPL Policies and Principles in Selected Countries: Implications and Lessons for Bangladesh

Abstract

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process commonly used to determine what credits may be granted to individuals to recognize their previous learning, experiences and/or skills acquired through various training and study programs. The RPL system allows teachers to get credits for the skills and knowledge they have developed as a result of formal and informal learning and/or training. It is a process of identifying, assessing and recognizing what a person knows and can do. It assesses the skills and knowledge that a person has developed as a result of formal and informal learning.This study is an exploratory review of RPL literature aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the nature of RPL provisioning in some selected countries. The study intended to inform recommend policies, processes and a plan for RPL development and implementation in Bangladesh. The countries selected for the study included the U.S.A., the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France and South Africa. The review and comparison mainly focused on RPL aspects e.g. definition, policy context, legislative or regulatory context, delivery mechanisms, funding process, issues and outcomes.A careful selection of published research works and articles related to the RPL observed and adhered in the selected countries was carried out and the salient features of development and implementation of RPL for each of the countries were examined, analyzed and summarized for gaining an insight into the process.The study proposes policy guidelines for RPL development and implementation in Bangladesh teacher education sector and states a set of criteria against which a more detailed strategy may be formulated. The strategy will be required to be elaborated and implemented by all key stakeholders in the system, i.e. NTEC, DSHE, NTRCA, accredited providers (such as TTCs), education and training practitioners, assessors, moderators, administrators and managers.The study ends stressing on some related aspects assumed to be in place and specific questions/issues to be settled during implementation of RPL.