Research

Summary page

Research

Recognising non-formal and informal learning: Participant insights and perspectives - Larry Smith, University of New England and Berwyn Clayton, Victoria University

Recognition of the skills acquired through non-formal or informal learning is important for a number of reasons. Individuals gain a feeling of worth and self-confidence, which encourages them to continue to upgrade their skills and knowledge, often leading to formal qualifications and improved employment outcomes. The process of recognition of prior learning (RPL) also ensures that knowledge and skills already held do not need to be repeated.

While recognition of prior learning is seen as an integral and valued component of the learning pathway and in many cases a critical catalyst to accessing formal education, both practitioners and learners have criticised recognition of prior learning for being difficult to access and implement.

There have been many studies into the nature, value and uptake of recognition of prior learning. To date there has been only a limited exploration of the experiences of people who have sought to have the skills they acquired through non-formal or informal learning recognised.

By offering interesting insights from the perspective of candidates who have presented themselves for recognition of prior learning, this report fills the gap. It covers how they become aware of their options and the factors that encourage or inhibit access to recognition of their skills and knowledge.

Key messages

The language associated with the recognition of prior learning process discourages people from taking advantage of it. Training institutions and systems should undertake a rigorous audit of the language used in the recognition of prior learning process and in the associated documentation, ensuring significant input from present and past candidates.
Training institutions should ensure that mentors and assessors used in the recognition of prior learning have high-level interpersonal skills, are strongly supportive of the recognition pathway, and have high credibility in their field.
There is strong anecdotal evidence to suggest that encouraging candidates to reflect on their learning, which should lie at the heart of the recognition of prior learning process, significantly improves their confidence and contributes to successful future learning.
Many people remain unaware that recognition of non-formal learning is an option for them. 'Word of mouth' has been the most powerful mechanism for promotion, but there is a need for clear information regarding recognition of prior learning to be provided to individuals as early as possible.

Tom Karmel
Managing Director, NCVER