(Complete discretion: Part of me has wanted to use this image in a post for many moons…so I loosely related it to PLAR, implying that the aliens previously filled that individual’s brain with knowledge…#sorrynotsorry.)
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
PLAR involves acknowledging relevant life experiences as credit against a pre-determined set of standards. Think of PLAR as a way of becoming exempt from an exam in high school. You demonstrate your competencies, and if the demonstration is strong enough (usually graded), you are fast tracked to the next course.
We often see PLAR in on-the-job roles, where someone may not have the perceived necessary academic qualifications for a certain position, but their previous work experience has been considered acceptable to warrant a career position for that individual.
Why is PLAR important?
- As an individual, it can help you identify skills and knowledge that may be relevant for application to future positions.
- It allows institutions and workplaces to set a benchmark for your knowledge and skills as they relate to their organization.
- Is efficient when it comes to identify training gaps and filling those gaps instead of delivering unnecessary training – this identification is often paired with training needs analysis.
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