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The Canadian Association for Prior Learning Assessment (CAPLA) presents Fall Focus WorkshopCashing in on the Riches of Prior LearningNovember 13 – 15, 2011 One King West Hotel Toronto, Ontario
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Introduction
Cashing in on the Riches of Prior Learning
The significance of our conference venue, One King West Hotel, the original 1879 Dominion Bank building, has provided the inspiration to consider the recognition of prior learning (RPL) as an investment in the future. Recognizing prior learning (RPL) pays big dividends for people, communities, organizations and countries. Managing one’s own knowledge assets is vital in an ever-changing labour market. Cashing in on what people know and can do is important to employers and to the future prosperity of Canadians and newcomers.
Program
Program and Presentations
Sunday, November 13
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9:00 am – 4:00 pm
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Pre-Conference Workshops
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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A. Fostering Transferability and Implementing Quality RPL in Canada’s Colleges and Institutes more... |
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A. Fostering Transferability and Implementing Quality RPL in Canada’s Colleges and Institutes |
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Presenters: Anna Tonneguzzo, ACCC Manager, Government Relations and Policy Research; Deb Blower, Chair, ACCC ROL Affinity Group Coordinating Committee
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Join the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) and the Coordinating Committee of the ACCC Recognition of Learning (ROL) Affinity Group for this pre conference day workshop. The day will begin with highlights from the recently released ACCC report, Transferability and Post Secondary Pathways – The Role of Canadian Colleges and Institutes and an update on the work of ACCC and its Transfer, Articulation and Pathways (TAP) Committee. The TAP Committee is helping to guide ACCC’s efforts in exploring ways to move the mobility agenda forward in a positive direction for learners, institutions and other partners across Canada. Presentations on best practices in RPL, partnerships with employers, and institution wide RPL innovation in some of Canada’s colleges and institutes will be showcased throughout the day. Take the opportunity to dialogue with RPL practitioners presenting from a variety of regions and explore some of the challenging issues in RPL practice. Learn about what is happening in Canada’s colleges in RPL. This workshop is of importance for post secondary educators searching for quality approaches to RPL implementation in their institutions. The pre conference day is planned and hosted by the Coordinating Committee of the ACCC Recognition of Learning (ROL) Affinity Group comprised of representatives from across Canada. Following a presentation on the ACCC Transfer, Articulation and Pathways initiative, there will be 6 presentations that will showcase some of the RPL practices and innovation in Canadian colleges and institutes. The presentations are outlined below.
Powerful Partnerships: Uniting Forces to Better Serve the Needs of PLAR Clienteles Geneviève Rock, PLAR Coordinator, Champlain College, Saint-Lambert, Quebec
Introducing British Columbia’s Prior Learning Action Network (BCPLAN) Jan Carrie, Director on BCPLAN and Vice President - Education at North Island College, British Columbia
Curriculum Tailored to the Needs of New Brunswick PLAR Practice Nicole Drapeau, Responsible reconnaissance des acquis at Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick, New Brunswick
RPL Services and Resources – Supporting Faculty and Staff Deb Blower, RPL Facilitator, Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Alberta Action Greg Sowak, Associate Registrar, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Edmonton, Alberta
Alternative Strategies for Recognizing the Skills of Trades Professionals Prior to Immigration Grant MacTavish, Coordinator RPL, SIAST Woodland Campus, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
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Download the Anna Tonneguzzo presentation |
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Download the Jan Carrie presentation |
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Download the Nicole Drapeau presentation |
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Download the Deb Blower presentation |
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Download the Greg Sowak presentation |
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Download the Grant MacTavish presentation |
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B. Introduction to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) & Portfolio more... |
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C. Beyond Academic Credentials – A 360 Degree Look at the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) more... |
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C. Beyond Academic Credentials – A 360 Degree Look at the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) |
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Moderator Susan Simosko, President, Susan Simosko Associates, Inc.
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Presenters: Christine Nielsen, Executive Director, Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science; Jan Robinson, CEO and Registrar, College of Physiotherapists of Ontario; Roman Savka, Project Manager and Product Specialist, Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council; Nigel Lloyd, Principal, CamProf Inc & Contractor, Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC); Lori Fontaine, Internationally Educated Health Professionals (IEHP) Policy Analyst, Health Workforce Strategies, Manitoba Health
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According to Canada’s Forum of Labour Market Ministers (FLMM), foreign qualification recognition is the “process of verifying that the knowledge, skills, work experience and education obtained in another country is comparable to the standards established for Canadian professionals and tradespeople”. (Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, 2009). This definition emphasizes the importance of evaluating all learning, regardless of how and where it was acquired. Yet many organizations rely on academic credentials alone, as the primary tool for determining competence in the field of practice. There are many regulatory bodies, certification organizations and universities who are exploring and in some cases implementing, a range of processes to evaluate immigrant learning from all sources — formal, informal and non-formal. In addition to determining the similarities between formal educational programs, stakeholders are using prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) tools such as simulations, demonstrations, challenge exams, case studies, structured interviews and/or self-assessment processes to evaluate competencies, skills and abilities. Determining what a person already knows and can do helps establish a more accurate picture of the need for additional training and for the upgrading of existing skills. Pre-conference participants will hear about effective recognition of prior learning (RPL) systems in other jurisdictions, along with promising practices in Canada. Specific PLAR tools (in italics above) that are currently used by regulators and sector councils will be examined, along with ideas and challenges associated with their implementation. Although open to any interested participants, this pre-conference session will contribute to the FLMM’s vision of “a fair and competitive market environment where immigrants have the opportunity to fully use their education, skills and work experience for their benefit and for Canada’s collective prosperity.” (2009) With the help of Jan Robinson (College of Physiotherapists of Ontario) and Christine Nielsen (Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science), an exciting program is being planned that will appeal to members of the Canadian Network of National Associations of Regulators (CNNAR), the Ontario Regulators of Ontario (ORAC), New Brunswick International Credential and Competency Assessment and Recognition (ICCAR) office and the Alliance of Sector Councils.
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Download the Susan Simosko presentation |
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Download the Nigel Lloyd presentation |
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6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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Welcome Reception
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Monday, November 14
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8:00 am – 5:00 pm
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Registration/Information Desk
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8:00 am – 9:00 am
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Continental Breakfast
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9:00 am – 10:30 am
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Welcome and
Plenary Session
Keynote: Richard Florida, Author & Thought-Leader
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10:30 am – 11:00 am
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Nutrition Break
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11:00 am – 12:00 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Using RPL Practitioner Competency Profiles more... |
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Prior Learning/Practice Recognition 2 of IENs: A Multiple Strategy SEC Assessment Approach to Assist Nursing Regulators with Eligibility Decisions more... |
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Prior Learning/Practice Recognition 2 of IENs: A Multiple Strategy SEC Assessment Approach to Assist Nursing Regulators with Eligibility Decisions |
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Presenters: Shelley Goodman, Associate Professor, Coordinator of Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) Assessment Centres, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Community Studies, Mount Royal University; Allyson Link, Lead Nurse Consultant, Internationally Educated Nurses Assessment Centre, Alberta South, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Community Studies, Mount Royal University
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The Mount Royal University (MRU) Substantially Equivalent Competency (SEC) Assessment is a research-based assessment that is used to assess the Canadian Registered Nurse Entryto- Practice Competencies with internationally educated nurses (IENs) to assist regulators with qualification and prior learning/ practice recognition in their decision-making on how to proceed with applications for registration. The nursing shortage continues to spark the interest of IENs working in other countries or working in Canada in non-nursing positions. In Alberta, Mount Royal University and the College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA) continue to work closely to ensure the IENs have the preparation required to provide safe, ethical and competent care. The multiple strategy SEC assessment approach is made up of tools and processes that continue to undergo both qualitative and quantitative testing to ensure their validity and reliability ensures standardization of expectations of knowledge and practice between IENs and Canadian educated nurses at an entry-topractice level.
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Download the Shelley Goodman presentation |
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The Slow March to ePortfolio Use for PLAR in Canada: Factors, Framework, Frustration more... |
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The Slow March to ePortfolio Use for PLAR in Canada: Factors, Framework, Frustration |
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Presenter: Dianne Conrad, Director, Centre for Learning Accreditation, Director, Bachelor of General Studies, Athabasca University
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e-Portfolios are slowly gaining credibility in Canadian universities as useful vehicles for a number of learning activities, including PLAR portfolios. To date, e-Portfolio use has followed on the heels of older, paper-based portfolio models, providing university students with a more flexible means of demonstrating their learning, as well as contributing to their sense of self and the creation of self-identity. This session examines e-Portfolio use with three questions in mind: 1) what lessons, relative to e-Portfolio use and self-representation and identity, have already been learned at one progressive ODL Canadian university? 2) what research directions and initiatives arise from this history? and 3) what continuity with or relationship to the more established use of portfolios can practitioners and researchers draw upon for the same purposes? Results of data analysis will not only continue to guide the university’s transition to further e-Portfolio use but will also contribute to research that examines the practical, skillsbased benefits of e-Portfolio use for learners.
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Download the Dianne Conrad presentation |
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Prior Learning Assessment in the Relational Age more... |
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12:00 pm – 1:45 pm
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Lunch Plenary Session
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Canada’s PLAR Networks – Coast to Coast and International Highlights more... |
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Canada’s PLAR Networks – Coast to Coast and International Highlights |
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Moderator: Deb Blower, RPL Facilitator, Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology;
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Presenters: Wendy Watson, President, BCPLAN, British Columbia; Lauren Waples, Chair, MPLAN, Manitoba; Guy Fortier, General Director, Compétences Montréal, Quebec; Pat Roberts, Learning Consultant, Learning Solutions, Newfoundland & Labrador; Marilyn Carkner, Director Learner Support and PLA, UNB College of Extended Learning, New Brunswick; Gail Hall, Chair, CAPLA’s International Prior Learning Assessment Network (IPLAN)
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Download the Deb Blower presentation |
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1:45 pm – 3:45 pm
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Super Session
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Recognizing the Skills of Mature Workers more... |
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Recognizing the Skills of Mature Workers |
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Facilitator: Denyce Diakun, director, Workforce and Personal development, Algonquin College;
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Presenters: Nora Spinks, CEO, Vanier Institute; Michael Stewart, National Program Manager, ThirdQuarter; Margaret Madden, Program Facilitator/Career and Employment Counsellor at the Women Interested in Successful Employment (WISE) Agency; Linda Hickey, Targeted initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) Project Lead; Marie Lawrence, TIOW Program Participant
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On the Human Resources and Skills development Canada (HRSDC) website, there is information on the HRSDC Consultations with Older Workers and Employers: Summary of What We Heard report. Sections from two findings are quoted below:- Skills Development and Recognition
With respect to skills recognition, many older workers indicated that they were interested in trying new and different kinds of work but were not sure what types of employment their existing skills and knowledge would allow them to pursue. - The Employability and Marketability of Older Workers
Older workers on the other hand, expressed much less confidence in their employment prospects. While they recognized the inherent value of their skills and experience, they were extremely concerned about their attractiveness to potential employers.In particular, concerns centred on the belief that employers’ preference was to hire younger workers (i.e. due to their lower salary cost/perceived higher energy levels) and employers’ reluctance (or inability) to recognize older workers’ experience in lieu of formal education (i.e. they have a “dated diploma”).
This double workshop (2 hours) will explore how the recognition of prior learning (RPL) can help both the employer and older worker overcome barriers to employment.
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1:45 pm – 2:45 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Gaining Momentum: PLAR in Alberta’s Advanced Education System more... |
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Universities and RPL – A Work in Progress more... |
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Universities and RPL – A Work in Progress |
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Presenter: Patrick Donahoe, CAPLA Chair and past VP, Student and Institutional Support, Capilano University;
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Presenters: Julie Parna, Director of Admissions, York University; Christine Wihak, Director, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition, Thompson Rivers University and the Prior Learning International Research Centre; Marilyn Carkner, Director, Learner Support and Delivery, PLA Centre, College of Extended Learning, University of New Brunswick
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Universities are facing growing pressure to recognize the prior learning (RPL) of mature students wanting formal credentials. Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) processes have the potential of reducing the time and money required to complete a degree or diploma, by using rigorous assessment tools created and evaluated by faculty. There is a good business case for the use of PLAR as an institutional strategy. Results in a number of studies suggest that adults who undertake PLAR at the initial stages of their academic career tend to have higher grades and better completion rates than other students. When academic institutions start assessing and granting credit for experiential learning, they will be supporting the participation of many non-credentialed Canadians and newcomers who are facing significant barriers in the labour force. Pressure for PLAR services is coming from a number of sources: - highly skilled immigrants with experience in their home countries
- working Canadians with extensive knowledge and skills from years in the labour force
- mature learners wanting to pursue higher education after they retire and/or if they return to work.
A panel of experts will share their perspectives on some of the incremental changes and challenges within the university sector, from new research activities, policy development and student advising, to administrative challenges and PLAR at the program level.
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KNEXT: A Powerful Education Partner more... |
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KNEXT: A Powerful Education Partner |
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Presenters: Victoria Ferrara, PhD, Director of Assessment: KNEXT; Susan Huggins, Director of Business Development, KNEXT
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At KNEXT, a Kaplan Higher Education company, we help adults leverage their past to shape their future. Existing college credits? We help harness them for tomorrow. Work experience? We help transform it into college credit. Dreams of a better career? We help set them in motion. Adults learn everywhere, not just at a desk in a classroom. Our suite of products and services can help adults earn credit for all of their learning - be it on the job, traveling, volunteering, or training. Learn about the KNEXT business model and the online portfolio assessment process.
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Download the Victoria Ferrara presentation |
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2:45 pm – 3:00 pm
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Nutrition Break
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3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Workplace Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition: 10 Years of Learning more... |
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Web Based Training for Evaluators of Prior Learning Assessment more... |
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Web Based Training for Evaluators of Prior Learning Assessment |
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Presenters: Marnie Evans, Director of Academic Review, Metropolitan Center, SUNY/Empire State College; Dr. Nan Travers, Director of Collegewide Academic Review, SUNY/Empire State College
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Providing frequent, accessible, and consistent PLA evaluator resources and training, with both breadth and depth, can be a challenge. Based on feedback, Empire State College/SUNY redeveloped their Beta-version and released a web-based training site for our 1,000+ evaluators. In this interactive workshop, we will demonstrate the website and facilitate discussion about creating effective resources to support and enhance evaluator skills.
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Download the Marnie Evans presentation |
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4:15 pm – 5:00 pm
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CAPLA Annual General Meeting (refreshments served)
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7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
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ACCC’s Recognition of Learning (ROL) Affinity Group Networking Dinner (optional)
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Tuesday, November 15
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7:30 am – 4:00 pm
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Registration/Information Desk
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7:30 am – 8:30 am
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Continental Breakfast
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8:30 am – 9:30 am
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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SMEs & Informal Workplace Learning in Canada more... |
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Pan-Canadian Quality Standards in International Academic Credential Evaluation more... |
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Pan-Canadian Quality Standards in International Academic Credential Evaluation |
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Presenters: Nancy Tran, CICIC Project Manager; Yves E Beaudin, CICIC National Coordinator; Nigel Lloyd, Principal, CamProf Inc.
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The Canadian Information Centre for International Credential (under the responsibility of the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada) embarked, in April 2010, with funding provided through Human Resources and Social Development Canada's Foreign Credential Recognition Program, on a project to improve the consistency and portability of academic credential assessments conducted in Canada. During this project a Pan-Canadian Quality Assurance Framework for the Assessment of International Academic Credentials, a competency profile for academic credential assessors and English and French Terminology Guides for Academic Credential Evaluation in Canada were developed. Also of interest are the feasibility studies regarding the development of an online postsecondary university program for assessors and the preparation of country profiles to help academic assessors. The results of the project will be presented during this workshop. The goal of the project was improve the consistency and the portability of academic and vocational assessments across Canada, in both regulated and unregulated professions, as well as the assessment of academic credentials for the admission to Canadian colleges and universities.
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Download the Nancy Tran presentation |
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Assessing the Workforce Integration of Licenced Internationally Educated Health Professionals in Canada more... |
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Building Success: PLAR Tools for Today’s Wood Manufacturing Sector more... |
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Building Success: PLAR Tools for Today’s Wood Manufacturing Sector |
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Presenters: Richard Lipman, President, Wood Manufacturing Council; Shaun Vollick, M.Ed., Consultant, Human Resource Systems Group
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The Wood Manufacturing Council recently completed the development of a new PLAR tool. Free and available online, this tool assists employers, displaced workers and internationally trained individuals match skills to the requirements of wood manufacturing employment. Featuring assessments, interview questions and guides to assessing and self-assessing transferable skills, this tool bridges the aspirations of job seekers with the skill requirements of this unique industry. In this session, we provide a brief demonstration of the PLAR tool along with insights on its development and, more broadly, the transferable benefits of online PLAR assessment to the demands of today’s manufacturing sector.
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Download the Richard Lipman presentation |
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9:45 am – 10:45 am
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Immigrant Learning and RPL - What We Heard from the Field of Practice more... |
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Immigrant Learning and RPL - What We Heard from the Field of Practice |
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Presenter: Susan Simosko, President, Susan Simosko Associates. Susan is an international PLAR expert. She has helped many regulatory and certifying bodies establish and evaluate their PLAR processes and has authored several books on PLAR including Applying APL Principles in Flexible Assessment: A Practical Guide.
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On October 31, 2011, CAPLA hosted an HRSDC-sponsored webinar that brought together regulators, occupational bodies, sector councils and other stakeholders to discuss the use of PLAR tools (i.e. structured interviews, case studies, simulations, self- assessment processes, challenge exams) to assess the informal and non-formal learning of immigrants. In particular, information was exchanged on the applicability of using such tools for evaluating both continuing competencies and entry level competencies for practicing professionals. CAPLA subsequently hosted a pre-conference session on November 13 to expand and build upon the ideas expressed during the October webinar. This workshop will reflect on ‘what we heard’ at both sessions and will give participants the opportunity for input. An outcomes paper and PLAR tools manual will be produced as a result of all consultations, through funding from the Foreign Credential Recognition Program at HRSDC.
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Download the Susan Simosko presentation |
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The Tremendous Future of Prior Learning Assessment more... |
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Worker Adjustment more... |
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E-portfolios and PLA Concept Mapping as Academic Tools of Knowledge Creation and Sharing more... |
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10:45 am – 11:15 am
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Nutrition Break
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11:15 am – 12:15 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Building Community Capacity in RPL more... |
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Building Community Capacity in RPL |
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Presenters: Judith Amesbury, PLAR Facilitator, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board; Carol Timlin, Executive Director, Victoria Country Career Services; Joan Connelly, Executive Director, Literacy Ontario Central South; Bonnie Kennedy, Executive Director, CAPLA
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In 2009, a group of community service providers (employment services, school board, college, literacy, NGOs, training board) in South Eastern Ontario came together to contemplate the idea of a multi-use competency portfolio for adults with considerable work and life experience. The members developed a Framework into which the competency portfolio might be positioned within existing employment and academic services, given that a number of community members were providing services to experienced adults and in particular to unemployed Ontarians participating in the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) program. In 2010 an employer focus group took place to gauge interest and get input into the Framework. In June 2011, eleven employment and academic counsellors attended a 5-day introduction to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) training session in the community, thanks to funding from the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU). This fall, the same group of career and academic counsellors will participate in a Train the Trainer Portfolio course, intended as the next step toward agency capacity-building. This workshop will allow participants to hear from community members, employment counsellors and literacy practitioners on the application of PLAR within their practice, with a focus on how RPL and competency portfolios could assist older clients to get recognition for their learning in the workforce, in academic institutions, or within other certification programs.
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Download the Judith Amesbury presentation |
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Download the Bonnie Kennedy presentation |
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The Implementation of Workforce Assessment Centres in Trinidad and Tobago more... |
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The Implementation of Workforce Assessment Centres in Trinidad and Tobago |
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Presenter: Pauline Whiteman, Manager, Programme Development and Management Department, National Training Agency of Trinidad & Tobago
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The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has launched Workforce Assessment Centres (WACs) to expand access to and participation in, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), using a system of Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) to assess and certify informal and non-formal competencies. The main goal of the WAC is to assess skilled but uncertified individuals within the workforce in Trinidad and Tobago, leading to the award of the Trinidad and Tobago National Vocational Qualification (TTNVQ) or the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ). The presentation will focus on the following: - Workforce Assessment Centre Operational Flow
- WAC Roles And Responsibilities
- Quality Assurance
- Lessons Learnt
- Challenges
- Successes
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Recognizing Pillars in the Association Community: The Path to Achieving the Certified Association Executive (CAE) Designation Through Prior Learning Assessment more... |
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Advising, Assessing, Articulating, and Recognizing: Recognition of Prior Learning at Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) and Beyond more... |
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Advising, Assessing, Articulating, and Recognizing: Recognition of Prior Learning at Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) and Beyond |
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Presenters: Grant MacTavish, RPL Co-ordinator, SIAST; Shirley Amichand, RPL Facilitator, SIAST; Stephanie Thompson, RPL Facilitator, SIAST
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SIAST is committed to recognizing prior learning through transfer credit and prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR). PLAR readiness in SIAST programs is greatly enhanced by the development of effective time saving templates, processes and orientation to authentic assessment for faculty by the RPL Facilitators. These tools and practices continue to build PLAR capacity as reflected in SIAST's notable PLAR statistics. In addition a ‘Guide to Transfer Credit’ has been developed with templates to support programs in implementing and developing articulation agreements. Attend this presentation to see how these initiatives can assist you and your organization and how SIAST has used them to assist external institutions and industry partners.
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Download the Grant MacTavish presentation |
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12:15 pm – 1:30 pm
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Lunch (delegates on their own)
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1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Career Portfolio Manitoba: Employability ePortfolio Using Essential Skills more... |
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Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science Online Self Assessment Tool for Prior Learning Assessment Readiness of Internationally Educated Medical Laboratory Technologists more... |
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Adobe Connect 101 more... |
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Adobe Connect 101 |
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Presenter: Frank Vandenburg, Strategic Innovator, PETL
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As part of meeting its commitment to promote PLAR and increase awareness across Canada, CAPLA has decided to use Adobe Connect as its webinar software. In addition to international webinars by IPLAN, CAPLA will also be conducting webinars to enable PLAR stakeholders in Canada to discuss, learn and collaborate with each other’s.
In addition to using the technology for CAPLA webinars, it will also be available to provincial PLAR networks and other groups wanting to engage their own communities on PLAR topics of particular interest. This session will focus on the Participant and Presenter roles within Adobe Connect meetings to enable those new to Adobe Connect or those with minimal experience to: - Join a meeting
- Optimize their viewing and listening experience during a presentation
- Interact with the Host, Presenter or other Participants in a meeting using tools such as chat, whiteboard, quizzes and voting
- View and respond to PowerPoint Presentations, Application Sharing, Web Pages and audio/video presentations
- Respond to questions and feedback from Participants
- Share content such as PowerPoint slides, Web Pages, Applications on the Presenter’s computer and audio and video files
- Using and modifying the various layouts and breakout rooms
- Understand the benefits preloading and recording presentations
- End a meeting
The session will also discuss resources for additional learning and opportunities to practice with Adobe Connect. Persons attending the session should feel comfortable with a computer and with using the Internet.
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Download the presentation |
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New Faculty and PLAR: Stop and Go more... |
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2:30 pm – 2:45 pm
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Nutrition Break
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2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
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Concurrent Sessions
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Click a title to see more about the workshop. |
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Experiential Learning Credentials – Bringing Together Occupational Practice and Formal Education for Mutual Benefit - A European perspective on using learning outcomes and competency frameworks as the basis for credentials and employability (and mobility) more... |
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International Qualifications Network (IQN) Web Site more... |
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Hard Facts about Soft Skills - Introducing a New, Online Competency Assessment more... |
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Hard Facts about Soft Skills - Introducing a New, Online Competency Assessment |
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Presenters: Nava Israel, PhD, Founder, Fusion Global Education; Dan Johns, Program Manager, Language Education for Accounting Professionals (LEAP) Inc.
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Employers struggle with recognizing applicants’ “fit” for client-facing and managerial positions as credentials tell very little and interviews are limited in scope and time. This challenge intensifies when the applicant is internationally educated, culturally different and/or has English as an acquired language. This session will showcase a new diagnostic tool of profession-specific language, communication and soft skills. This fully online, competency-based, standardized, affordable, experiential and interactive assessment tool will allow decision makers (employers, regulators or bridging programs) to get a deeper understanding of their applicants’, Canadian-born or internationally educated, skill levels as part of their screening process.
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Download the Nava Israel presentation |
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Keynote Speaker
Richard Florida Author and thought-leader Richard Florida is author of the global best-seller The Rise of the Creative Class and Who's Your City? a national and international best seller and amazon.com book of the month. His new book, The Great Reset explains how new ways of living and working will drive post-crash prosperity. He is author of The Flight of the Creative Class and Cities and the Creative Class. His previous books, especially The Breakthrough Illusion and Beyond Mass Production, paved the way . . . Read morefor his provocative looks at how creativity is revolutionizing the global economy.
Florida has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, The Economist, and The Harvard Business Review. He has been featured as an expert on MSNBC, CNN, BBC, NPR and CBS, to name just a few. Richard has also been appointed to the Business Innovation Factory's Research Advisory Council and recently named European Ambassador for Creativity and Innovation.
Florida’s ideas on the “creative class,” commercial innovation, and regional development have been featured in major ad campaigns from BMW and Apple, and are being used globally to change the way regions and nations do business and transform their economies.
Florida is one of the world’s leading public intellectuals on economic competitiveness, demographic trends, and cultural and technological innovation. International diplomats, government leaders, filmmakers, economic development organizations and leading Fortune 100 businesses have benefited from his global approach to problem-solving and strategy development.
He is one of the world's most sought after speakers on global trends, economics, prosperity, competitiveness and growth. Combining in-depth analysis, cutting-edge trends, a fascinating personal story, and just a touch of self-deprecating humor, it’s no wonder Florida was recently named one of Esquire Magazine’s Best and Brightest, alongside luminaries such as Bill Clinton and Jeffrey Sachs.
Florida is the founder of the Creative Class Group (CCG), a global advisory services firm charting new trends and strategies for business, government, and community competitiveness. The CCG team is comprised of next-generation thinkers and strategists who offer companies, associations, and regions access to leading-edge knowledge, trends, consulting, education, and professional development.
Florida is Director of the Martin Prosperity Institute at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. He has taught at Carnegie Mellon University, and been a visiting professor at Harvard and MIT. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Rutgers College and his Ph.D. from Columbia University.
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Meet the Authors
There will be opportunities at CAPLA’s Fall Focus Workshop for you to purchase signed copies of the following publications: The Great Reset Who's Your City? The Rise of the Creative Class Author Richard Florida and Researching the Recognition of Prior Learning: International Perspectives Editors Judy Harris, Mignonne Breier and Christine Wihak
Pre-Conference Workshops
Sunday November 13th, 2011 Pre-conference A Fostering Transferability and Implementing Quality RPL in Canada’s Colleges and Institutes Presenter: Anna Tonneguzzo, ACCC Manager, Government Relations and Policy Research; Deb Blower, Chair, ACCC ROL Affinity Group Coordinating Committee Join the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) and the Coordinating Committee of the ACCC Recognition of Learning (ROL) Affinity Group for this pre conference day workshop. The day will begin with highlights from the recently released ACCC report, Transferability and Post Secondary Pathways- The Role of Canadian Colleges and Institutes and an update on the work of ACCC and its Transfer, Articulation and Pathways (TAP) Committee. The TAP Committee is helping to guide ACCC’s efforts in exploring ways to move the mobility agenda forward in a positive direction for learners, institutions and other partners across Canada. Presentations on best practices in RPL, partnerships with employers, institution wide RPL innovation in some of Canada’s colleges and institutes will be showcased throughout the day. Take the opportunity to dialogue with RPL practitioners presenting from a variety of regions and explore some of the challenging issues in RPL practice. Learn about what is happening in Canada’s colleges in RPL. This workshop is of importance for post secondary educators searching for quality approaches to RPL implementation in their institutions. The pre conference day is planned and hosted by the Coordinating Committee of the ACCC Recognition of Learning (ROL) Affinity Group comprised of representatives from across Canada. Following a presentation on the ACCC Transfer, Articulation and Pathways initiative, there will be 6 presentations that will showcase some of the RPL practices and innovation in Canadian colleges and institutes. The presentations are outlined below. Part of pre-conference A Powerful Partnerships: Uniting Forces to Better Serve the Needs of PLAR Clienteles Presenter: Geneviève Rock, PLAR coordinator at Champlain College in Saint-Lambert, Quebec One of the challenges that PLAR practitioners often face is the lack of human resources. To implement PLAR procedures and to train the necessary specialists to evaluate PLAR candidates requires careful planning, hence an investment in human resources cognizant in PLAR. Unfortunately, and perhaps because of the widespread misconception that PLAR is not a financially viable service, educational institutions are rarely ready to invest in PLAR, leaving many PLAR practitioners short staffed. One way around this is to form partnerships with various institutions. Champlain College Saint-Lambert has formed partnerships with several governmental and non-governmental institutions to help finance the costs of offering PLAR services to the community. In this presentation, Geneviève Rock, PLAR coordinator at Champlain College Saint-Lambert will present several forms of partnerships. Partnerships generally arise from an identified and unmet need of specific clienteles. For each partnership, the clientele served, the roles of the partners, and the financial responsibilities of each partner will be described. A special consideration will be given to how institutions can work together and share their financial and human resources to better serve the needs of the community. Part of pre-conference A Introducing British Columbia's Prior Learning Action Network (BCPLAN) Presenter: Jan Carrie, a Director on BCPLAN and Vice President - Education at North Island College in British Columbia BCPLAN is a not-for-profit society. Come and learn how a group of post secondary educators, employers, employment service providers and policy makers are working together to Increase access to credentials, employment opportunities and facilitate the development of recognition learning services across BC. BCPLAN is currently involved in a strategic planning process to identify its future direction and leadership model. Part of pre-conference A Curriculum Tailored to the Needs of New Brunswick PLAR Practice Presenter: Nicole Drapeau, Responsible reconnaissance des acquis at Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick in New Brunswick In this presentation, a curriculum guide developed by the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, Inc. for the NBPLAR Action Group will be presented. Its purpose is to inform and support individuals involved in developing, delivering and/or managing Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) systems and services in New Brunswick institutions, organizations and workplaces. It can serve as an aid in the review and/or selection of appropriate existing PLAR curricula as well as the development of new curricula tailored to the needs of New Brunswick PLAR communities of practice. Part of pre-conference A RPL Services and Resources – Supporting Faculty and Staff Presenter: Deb Blower, RPL Facilitator at Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology in Winnipeg, Manitoba Implementing quality RPL practices requires targeted planning, implementation, guidance and support. Based on real life learning experiences from Red River College’s RPL Services department, this presentation will walk participants through a variety of effective ways to assist and support faculty and staff to develop, implement and move forward with RPL. The presentation will provide examples of: general and program specific RPL resources; RPL templates and tools and customized training sessions and workshops for those who are directly involved in RPL advising, assessing and/ or the development of resources. Part of pre-conference A Alberta Action Presenter: Greg Sowak, Associate Registrar at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, Alberta In October 2008, Alberta Advanced Education and Technology (AET) committed to advancing prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) in Alberta’s advanced education system by releasing and implementing a clear and detailed provincial action plan. This presentation will provide information on PLAR advancement activities that have occurred in the Province of Alberta since implementation of the PLAR Action Plan began in April 2009. Key initiatives will be highlighted and discussed including professional development, standardization of terminology, and data reporting. The ACCC ROL AG priorities to be addressed during this talk include Advocacy, PLAR Services, and PLAR Training, Standards, and Certification. Part of pre-conference A Alternative Strategies for Recognizing the Skills of Trades Professionals Prior to Immigration Presenting Presenter: Grant MacTavish, Coordinator RPL at SIAST Woodland Campus in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan SIAST is assisting Saskatchewan employers address skill shortages in key trades occupations by employing PLAR strategies. Employers can have the skills of immigrant nominees tested against Canadian standards at established testing centers in Ukraine and the Philippines prior to immigration. Overseas PLAR assessments are carried out following SIAST’s prescribed PLAR assessment processes and tools that guarantee testing integrity is maintained. Pre-conference B Introduction to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) & Portfolio Presenter: Roberta Burke, Centre for Teaching & Learning, Mohawk College Designed for participants who wish to learn the basic principles and practices of prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) and portfolio development, this interactive workshop will cover: - the philosophical framework of RPL
- key terms and concepts
- assessment tools and models
- approaches and applications for portfolio development and portfolio assessment
- principles of best practice and an introduction to emerging benchmarks for PLAR practitioners
- snapshot of current PLAR initiatives
- learner & practitioner resources
Pre-conference C Beyond Academic Credentials – A 360 Degree Look at the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Moderator: Susan Simosko, President, Susan Simosko Associates, Inc.; Presenters: Christine Nielsen, Executive Director, Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science; Jan Robinson, CEO and Registrar, College of Physiotherapists of Ontario; Roman Savka, Project Manager and Product Specialist, Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council According to Canada’s Forum of Labour Market Ministers (FLMM), foreign qualification recognition is the “process of verifying that the knowledge, skills, work experience and education obtained in another country is comparable to the standards established for Canadian professionals and tradespeople”. ( Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, 2009) This definition emphasizes the importance of evaluating all learning, regardless of how and where it was acquired. Yet many organizations rely on academic credentials alone, as the primary tool for determining competence in the field of practice. There are many regulatory bodies, certification organizations and universities who are exploring and in some cases implementing, a range of processes to evaluate immigrant learning from all sources - formal, informal and non-formal. In addition to determining the similarities between formal educational programs, stakeholders are using prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) tools such as simulations, demonstrations, challenge exams, case studies, structured interviews and/or self-assessment processes to evaluate competencies, skills and abilities. Determining what a person already knows and can do helps establish a more accurate picture of the need for additional training and for the upgrading of existing skills. Pre-conference participants will hear about effective recognition of prior learning (RPL) systems in other jurisdictions, along with promising practices in Canada. Specific PLAR tools (in italics above) that are currently used by regulators and sector councils will be examined, along with ideas and challenges associated with their implementation. Although open to any interested participants, this pre-conference session will contribute to the FLMM’s vision of “a fair and competitive market environment where immigrants have the opportunity to fully use their education, skills and work experience for their benefit and for Canada’s collective prosperity.” (2009) With the help of Jan Robinson (College of Physiotherapists of Ontario) and Christine Nielsen (Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science), an exciting program is being planned that will appeal to members of the Canadian Network of National Associations of Regulators (CNNAR), the Ontario Regulators of Ontario (ORAC), New Brunswick International Credential and Competency Assessment and Recognition (ICCAR) office and the Alliance of Sector Councils.
Registration
How To Register
To register online click here. You are not registered until payment is received in full. Space is limited – register early.
CAPLA Membership Renewal
Join CAPLA now and save on conference registration fees. It's easy to join: Click here to join online or click the image at right for a downloadable membership application. Methods of payment include Visa, MasterCard, money order and cheque (payable to CAPLA.) | | | | | The application form is available here as a PDF document. You can view and print PDFs with the free Adobe Reader. |
Contact Us
Questions or special requests can be directed to:
Conference SecretariatAgenda Managers Inc. 2979 Oxford Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3L 2W3 Phone: (902) 422-1886 or 1-877-731-1333 Fax: (902) 422-2535 Email: Conference Secretariat
Events
CAPLA Annual General Meeting
Monday, November 14 4:15 pm – 5:00 pm
All CAPLA members are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served.
ACCC’s Recognition of Learning (ROL) Affinity Group Networking Dinner
International PLA Network Workshop
Have you ever wondered if other countries define the competencies needed for an RPL practitioner? For the assessment, advising and facilitating/coordinating role, countries define requirements, establish training and recognize or certify practitioners in different ways.
Join us for a discussion on RPL Practitioner competencies, training and recognition, with an overview of the Canadian process to date (in partnership with CAPLA’s RPL Standards Working Group), and glimpses of some European approaches.
This will be a live webcast with participation of individuals from around the world.
Strategic Advisory Panel on the Recognition of Prior Learning
Wednesday, November 16 from 9:00 am – 3:00 p.m
The Strategic Advisory Panel on RPL had its first meeting in Toronto at the Metropolitan Hotel on November 13, 2009 in conjunction with CAPLA’s Fall Focus Workshop and Annual General Meeting. All of Canada’s provinces and territories have appointed representatives to sit on the Panel, primarily through the Deputy Ministers’ or Assistant Deputy Ministers’ offices. In addition, the federal government, key national organizations and non-governmental organizations are also involved.
The Panel was created in response to suggestions by several jurisdictions wanting CAPLA to strengthen its leadership role as a well-established and unique pan-Canadian network and community of practice for online RPL resources, research, information sharing and dialogue.
Panel members all agree that RPL is an important labour market strategy. Finding out the workplace competencies, skills and abilities which adults have is the first and most critical step before gap education and training is undertaken or new employment secured. Through a collaborative process, Panel members are identifying priority issues, exploring partnership opportunities and establishing tasks and timelines for the forthcoming year.
This meeting is for panel members only.
Disclaimer
Although the Canadian Association for Prior Learning Assessment (CAPLA) makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information found in its publications and on its web sites, it assumes no responsibility for the authenticity, accuracy or validity of opinions expressed and represented therein. Links to external web sites do not constitute endorsements of products or services. Accordingly, CAPLA cannot be held liable for any damages resulting from its programs, activities, print materials or electronic communications.
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