Article 2019

Recognition of prior learning as an access tool

HI
Hlongwane, Ike
Higher Education, Skills and Work-based Learning
Journal · Vol. 9 · Issue 4 · pp. 563-570
Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of recognition of prior learning (RPL) as an alternative tool for access into learning programmes in South African Library and Information Science (LIS) schools. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopted quantitative methods, and utilised questionnaires and document analysis to collect data. Findings: The study found that despite an institutional “will” among the LIS schools to open up access to learners who come from diverse backgrounds; there are still aspects that inhibit the use of RPL as an alternative route of access into higher education and training. Research limitations/implications: In-depth interviews were not conducted to ascertain the veracity of the findings. Practical implications: This study was valuable for institutions, policy makers, government and other stakeholders to assess the impact of RPL implementation in higher education and training. Originality/value: Despite there been very little published concerning RPL implementation in higher education and training, use of RPL, as an alternative route to access into higher education and training is generally low. The paper seeks to highlight and promote RPL as an alternative route of access into higher education and training especially for non-matriculants from diverse backgrounds. © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited.

Keywords

Author Keywords

Recognition of prior learning Library and information science (LIS) schools South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) Alternative access routes Student enrolments

Index Keywords

Author Affiliations
Department of Information Science, University of South Africa, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Funding & Acknowledgements
University of South Africa, Unisa
The researcher wants to acknowledge the University of South Africa (UNISA) for its funding which enabled the researcher to complete his doctoral studies.
References 10 References
1 South African Vice Chancellors Association Senates Discretionary Conditional Exemption Exemption Committee, (2001)
2 Re Theorising the Recognition of Prior Learning, (2006)
3 What S in It for Me Recognition of Prior Learning in Enterprise Based Registered Training Organisations, (2004)
4 Recognition of Prior Learning in the Vocational Education and Training Sector, (2003)
5 Whose Learning Whose Knowledge Recognition of Prior Learning and the National Qualifications Framework, (1997)
6 Recognition of Prior Learning Recognising the Skills and Abilities of Un and Under Qualified Librarians, (2006)
7 Demand for the Skills and the Education and Training Currently Provided by Higher Education Institutions for Librarians Archivists Records Managers and Other Information Specialists, (2010)
8 Recognition of Prior Learning at A Glance, (2006)
9 Prior Learning Theories of Learning and the Recognition of Prior Learning Implications for South Africa Education and Training, (2000)
10 Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education the Case of the University of Western Cape, (2001)
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