RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING
What Is It?
Gap Training
Appeals
Fees
Frequently Asked Questions
RPL Brochure
Contact Information
What Is It?
Winnipeg Technical College believes that significant learning takes place outside our institution and that this learning can and should be assessed and recognized. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) ensures that our students are engaged in appropriate and enriching learning activities. Recognizing previously acquired knowledge and skills increases student confidence and educational efficiency and is consistent with good adult education practice.
A student may earn up to 75% course credit in a program when credit for prior learning, including transfer of credit, is awarded. If warranted, additional credits (that is more than 75% of the program) may be granted by the appropriate assessor(s) in consultation with the Registrar and the RPL Coordinator.
Prior learning at Winnipeg Technical College can be recognized in two ways: 1) Credit Transfer and/or 2) Assessment of Prior Learning.
Credit Transfer
A student may transfer credit for courses successfully completed at other recognized institutions. Some courses have already been assessed and may be a part of a formal transfer of credit agreement. A form outlining what is being credited along with an original transcript is required for the official student file in the main office.
Other institutional programs and courses are continuously being assessed for transfer credits. If a student has taken a program or course that has not already been assessed they can submit all transcripts and supporting documents and have the programs/courses assessed for equivalent credit.
The student must supply the following to assist in the evaluation:
1. original copy of transcript
2. copy of course outline or textbook
3. any other relevant material
Students transferring between programs at the College will have their competencies evaluated by the receiving program.
If Winnipeg Technical College is not familiar with the programs or courses delivered at another institution and the student cannot provide the above documentation the student may request assessment of their prior learning.
Assessment of Prior Learning
Students may apply for credit for appropriate learning that they have acquired through experience. A student who has substantial, demonstrable learning from experience that is similar to competencies offered by the College may apply for the assessment of their prior learning.
The assessment of prior learning will be conducted through the use of rigorous, flexible assessment methods. Through these methods, the student's learning that is gained through their experience may be recognized. Students involved in the RPL process may provide evidence of their learning through a variety of methods including demonstrations, portfolio, assignments, interviews, examination(s) or a combination of methods.
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Gap Training
A student involved in the R PL process may need to fill in the gaps if they have only part of the learning required for a particular course or program. Required gap training, related costs, and how it will be provided will be determined in consultation with the appropriate instructor, the RPL Coordinator, the Registrar and the student.
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Appeals
Appeals regarding the Recognition of Prior Learning can be made through the College's regular appeal process with the exception that the initial meeting for the appeal take place with the RPL Coordinator.
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Fees
A $250.00 non-refundable fee for the assessment of prior learning is based on services performed in the process and not on the amount of credit awarded. Fees are non-transferable.
Credit transfer fees are $35.00 per course to a maximum of $250.00 per program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RPL process?
The Recognition of Prior Learning is a process of identifying, documenting, assessing and recognizing what a student knows and can do. The process enables learners to obtain recognition for their prior learning which they have achieved through both formal and non-formal experiences such as work, academic studies, individual pursuits, and community activities. The prior learning of the student may be equivalent to the knowledge, skills and judgements expected from courses at Winnipeg Technical College.
Why should I be involved in the RPL process?
RPL is a valuable process that may help you earn a credential or receive recognition for the skills and knowledge you already possess. The process can help you to achieve your goals in less time and with greater flexibility. The RPL process can assist you in reducing your tuition costs.
Does RPL give credit for experience?
No, credit at the College is given only for knowledge and skills acquired through experience, not the experience itself.
Who should apply for RPL?
RPL is for all students that have significant learning from work and life experiences and want to receive recognition for the learning that is equivalent to current WTC course outcomes.
How do I apply for RPL?
The College has an RPL process. The first step is to contact the RPL Coordinator to set up an initial interview.
The RPL Coordinator can be contacted at 989-6575.
Do I have to meet regular entrance requirements if I want to be involved in RPL?
An individual seeking credit(s) for prior learning must meet regular program entrance requirements and /or prerequisites either through official documentation that meets entrance requirements, or an assessment test.
How is prior learning assessed at WTC?
At Winnipeg Technical College there are several ways to assess prior learning including:
- assessment of educational documents
- portfolio review
- challenge process
- skills demonstration
- external course/program assessment
- any combination of above
Would courses/training completed in the workplace fit in the RPL process?
Learning from workplace courses/training would be compared to the outcomes of a program or course, in the same way other documentation is assessed during the RPL process at the College.
Where can I get further information about RPL?
Information about RPL at Winnipeg Technical College can be found in our brochures, or by contacting the College or the RPL Coordinator directly.
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RPLBrochure
RPL Brochure
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Contact Information
For more information, please contact the RPL Coordinator at 989-6575 or email statho@wtc.mb.ca
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