Recognition of Prior Learning welcome Dr Deirdre Goggin
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the process by which all forms of learning are recognised and given value for entry, advanced entry or module exemption to programmes in higher education institutions.
L-R: Dr Andrew Power, Registrar IADT, Carmel Kelly, Head of Student and Academic Affairs IADT, Dr Deirdre Goggin, RPL Project Lead at MTU, Dr Selina Guinness, Head of Teaching & Learning IADT, Louisa Keogh, Lifelong Learning Officer IADT, David Smith, President IADT.
IADT promotes RPL across its programmes and recently welcomed Dr Deirdre Goggin to deliver a lunchtime training session to support its implementation. Recently awarded a PhD for her qualitative study on the implementation of RPL in Irish HEIs, Dr Goggin presented an overview of best practice at MTU, emphasising that ‘everyone is responsible for RPL’.
Dr Goggin’s presentation drew on her 20 years’ experience in promoting RPL and outlined the need for consistency of policy, procedure and application in the assessment and promotion of RPL for entry, module exemption and, in exceptional circumstances, for full award at MTU. RPL is seen as a key strategy and mechanism to advance MTU’s engagement agenda with industry, with the RPL ethos and practice incorporated into curriculum design across all programmes.
“Gaining access to IADT through the recognition of prior learning is radically transformative for learners who may otherwise struggle to articulate how the knowledge and learning they already possess equip them to participate and succeed in our programmes.” Dr Selina Guinness, Head of T&L.
This session drew on best practice guidelines set by the National RPL in Higher Education Project. This HCI Pillar 3 project has established a strong community of practice among RPL practitioners and colleagues across FE & HE to support widening participation for non-CAO entrants to tertiary programmes in partnership with industry and enterprise. IADT looks forward to expanding the number of learners admitted through RPL, particularly across our suite of micro-credentials offered through the Creative Futures Academy and throughout our life-long learning programmes.