Linking theory and practice with Work Based Learning (WBL) Oran Doherty Letterkenny Institute of Technology

Presentation plan  RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)  RPL for the Labour Market  WBL (Work Based Learning)  Sample WBL Programmes  Prerequisites for a successful WBL programme

Introduction to RPL RPL involves awarding an applicant recognition in the form of initial or advanced admission to a programme, credits within a programme or exemption(s) from element(s) of a programme or an award. –Access on to programmes –Exemptions –Awards

Background to RPL at LYIT  2006 LYIT Participated in a government funded project aimed at recognising Learning in the Workplace.  Specifically the project involved recognising with a third level qualification (e.g. single subject certificate) learning achieved in IT and Business that occurred in the individual’s personal life or in the work environment.

Practical example RPL – to get an award  RPL Facilitator vested and presented to companies throughout the North West of Ireland  Between , 387 employees completed portfolio in: –Customer Care –Computer Applications –Training and Support –HRM –Communications

Practical example RPL – to get an award  Example of a learners with Customer Care skills seeking third level qualification Sample Assignment Customer Care\RPL Learning Outcomes.doc Sample Portfolio Customer Care\Customer Care RPL Portfolio Julie.docx Sample assessment document Customer Care\Assessment Sheet.doc

Practical example RPL – to access a programme  Assessment to access the Masters in Innovation and Leadership MBS Assignment.doc  Sample RPL portfolio Sample RPL Portfolio.docx

Work Based Learning (WBL)  Shift on emphasis from RPL to WBL 2010  Work Based Learning (WBL) is where an Employer (or employer representative body) and a HE institute come together to develop and deliver a training programme.  3 parties: Learner Employer / Employer Representative HE Institute

Sample WBL programmes

1. Higher Cert in IT Support - Pramerica ( )  Level 6 Programme (120 Credits)  Normally this programme would take 2 years for our full time students (Monday-Friday) but due to combination of RPL, WBL, E-Learning and Mentoring, full time employees from the IT Sector can complete programme 2 mornings per week over 18 months

Accelerated Higher Cert IT Support Mondays & Wednesdays ModuleCreditsTaught Hours Dates Study Skills512September 2013 Computer Systems 530September - December 2013 Operating Systems530September - December 2014 Software Development 1530January-March 2014 Computer Networks 1530January-March 2014 Workplace Learning (RPL)600April-September 2014 Computer Networks 2530April 14th - July 7th 2014 Operating Systems 2530April 16th-June 25th 2014 Computer Applications (RPL)50July & August 2014 Software Development 2530September - November 2014 Database Technology530September - November 2014 Mainframe Development 1530January - March 2015 Quality Testing 1530January - March 2015

3.BBS IN RETAIL MANAGEMENT PRACTICE  2009, Irish Business and Employer Confederation (IBEC) Retail Skillnet approached Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) about the possibility of jointly developing and delivering a Retail Degree Programme.  LYIT - good track record working in partnership with employers.  Dedicated Work Based Learning Facilitator

Challenges for the Education Provider in delivering WBL programmes  Fear – familiar with dealing with full time students (training required)  Getting lecturers to agree (time constraints, fear of employers)  Time to develop programme (typically could take 6-12 months to develop…)  Resources – rooms, lecturers, time …….  Because training is usually intensive, extremely important learners attend.

Prerequisites for successful WBL Partnership between industry and HE 1.Trust and Commitment 2.Communications 3.Planning and Direction 4.Programme Design and Delivery (sector specific, start of small) 5.Flexible – change of modules, content, timing, minimum disruption – e-learning

Prerequisites for successful WBL Partnership between industry and HE 6.Assessment – linked to the workplace 7.Bridging cultural barriers 8.RPL 9.Selection of suitable applicants 10.Lecturers and guest lecturers 11.Proper induction

Next Steps  Develop further WBL programmes with national and international employers using retail model  Participate in an EU project exploring Work Based Learning  Examine on-line technology to support WBL programmes (e.g. e-portfolio)  Currently completing DBA that examines how cultural differences between industry and HE providers can be overcome in WBL partnerships.

Contact Details Oran Doherty  RPL/WBL Facilitator LYIT  Phone: 