Recognition of prior learning: the accelerated rate of change in Australian universities

Abstract

The recognition of prior learning (RPL) is a cornerstone of the lifelong learning policies of most developed nations. Yet the scholarly view in Australia has been that, unlike other post‐compulsory education sectors, universities have erected barriers to limit the development of RPL. This paper re‐examines the current policy environment and finds evidence that universities are now more active in developing and promoting RPL, as evidenced by the rich detail of information contained in recent policies, as well as the accessibility of this information on the web. Recognition of prior learning policies are examined in detail to shed light further on the state of play of RPL in the Australian higher education sector.

Keywords:

• credit transfer
• higher education policy
• informal learning
• lifelong learning
• recognition of prior learning

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the Editors of Higher Education Research and Development and two anonymous referees for their constructive comments on an earlier version of this paper. However, any opinions expressed or errors contained in this article are those of the author alone.