Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
What is Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)?
PLAR uses a variety of tools to help learners reflect on, identify, articulate and demonstrate past learning which has been acquired through study, work and other life experiences, and which is not recognized through formal transfer of credit mechanisms. PLAR allows the evaluation of past learning against established academic standards so that recognition can be awarded. In Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology, the PLAR system currently evaluates prior learning and relates it to existing courses through portfolio assessment and challenge evaluation, for the purpose of granting college credit.
Whether it's learning from previous college or university courses, work experience, volunteer activities and/or independent studies, Mohawk College recognizes that college-level learning can take place in a variety of settings both inside and outside the traditional classroom.You may be able to complete a college certificate or diploma program by combining prior learning with the acquisition of new knowledge and skills in a program suited to your needs and interests. Up to 75% of course credits required to earn a Mohawk College credential may be achieved through a combination of the following ways of awarding credit for prior learning:
Challenge Exams
A challenge exam is a method of Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) designed to measure an individual's learning achievements against course learning outcomes.
Mohawk College subject matter experts develop a variety of written and non-written evaluation methods that allow you to demonstrate knowledge and skills for the purpose of awarding credit without the necessity of enrolling in a course.
Some programs offer regularly scheduled challenge exams which are advertised in the Continuing Education Calendar under the Program name. Refer to the CE Calendar for specific dates and locations.
Portfolio-Assisted Assessment
This is another method of Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) that involves the submission of documentation describing learning acquired through work and life experience that may be equivalent to the learning outcomes in a college course. Developing a portfolio can help you to
- identify, think about and demonstrate what you know and can do - in other words, prior learning.
- organize life experiences into a manageable format for assessment.
A portfolio is not only a product, but also a process by which prior learning experiences can be translated into educational outcomes, documented and assessed for academic credit. Portfolios are often prepared by college applicants to demonstrate that they have met the skills and knowledge requirements of a particular course. This can be done by enrolling in a portfolio course, or independently.
Normally, a portfolio should contain:
- description of learning experiences
- identification of knowledge, skills and abilities related to course learning outcomes;
- supporting documentation to verify the learning claimed.
Credit is granted on a course-by-course basis. Applications should be submitted early to allow sufficient time for assessment.
Challenge exams and Portfolio-assisted Assessment are methods of Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) and are subject to an assessment fee per course. Such fees are usually about half the course tuition fee. For a comprehensive look at PLAR, please visit our FAQ.
The granting of credits for prior learning does not guarantee entry into any program of studies. The normal admission procedure to gain entrance into any certificate or diploma program at Mohawk College should be followed.
