Assessment of Prior Learning

Prior learning assessment usually refers to the evaluation of knowledge acquired through life's experiences by the examination of documentation and/or other evidence. It may also refer to the evaluation of such knowledge by other methods, including testing, interview, demonstration, or performance. A successful assessment of prior learning typically results in earning academic credit, usually toward a college degree. It is essential for the assessment to be conducted by one or more content experts in the subject area under consideration, most often college faculty. In most cases, it is not necessary for the student and the evaluator(s) to be located in the same place.

The most common method used to evaluate prior learning is portfolio assessment; another method is known as credit-by-evaluation or individualized assessment. Prior learning ...