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Improving what we do and how we do it is a goal for lifelong learners, progressive organizations and successful businesses. This year’s conference theme opens up the door for dialogue on this important subject.
There are a number of Canadian and international trends impacting the assessment and recognition of prior learning. For example UNESCO’s Institute for Lifelong Learning in Germany published a report entitled Guidelines for the Recognition, Validation and Accreditation of the Outcomes of Non-formal and Informal Learning (2012) that provides suggestions to countries interested in “developing or improving structures and procedures to recognize the outcomes of all forms of learning, particularly those of non-formal and informal learning.” The report conveys a message of improvement and quality-assured practice, along with RPL principles such as relevance, reliability, fairness and transparency.
Canada’s Forum of Labour Market Ministers echo similar principles in their Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications (2009), where fairness, transparency, timeliness and consistency are also emphasized.
Currently CAPLA is spearheading a national quality assurance (QA) project, thanks to support from the Foreign Credential Recognition Program at Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Outcomes will improve practice and PLAR opportunities across the country.
We hope you will join us at CAPLA’s 2014 Recognizing Learning conference in Ottawa as we discuss the multifaceted aspects of Recignition of Prior Learning practices with stakeholders from across Canada and abroad.


Tim Thompson is from the bear clan of the Mohawk Nation at Wahta Mohawk Territory. The Mohawk Nation is one of the six Nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Haudenosaunee communities are found on both sides of the international border between Canada and the United States.
Tim served as the Policy Director of the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres, In that capacity, Tim assisted in the implementation of the Aboriginal
Tim has served as the Education Coordinator for the Chiefs of Ontario where, among other things, he oversaw the development of the Manifesto on First Nations education and facilitated discussions with governments on matters relating to First Nations education funding and jurisdiction.
His work on the policy level has provided Tim with the opportunity to serve on numerous committees and task forces designed to advance First Nations education. In addition to serving on the steering committee to create Native studies courses for the secondary education system in Ontario in 1996, in 2010 he was one of the reviewers to oversee the development of Native Studies textbooks to support the courses which had been in place. It is a reminder that change often takes time and persistence.
Tim served as the President and CAO of First Nations Technical Institute, an internationally known First Nations controlled post-secondary institution, and assisted in strengthening international relationships with Indigenous educators in Chile, Ecuador, and the World Indigenous Nations Higher Education Consortium.
Tim most recently served as the Education Director of the Assembly of First Nations after having previously worked with the Assembly in Parliamentary Liaison.
He has been a volunteer representative to the Aboriginal Issues Committee and the Research Advisory Panel of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, a representative on the Haudenosaunee Education Committee, and on the Haudenosaunee Environmental Task Force, He is a past president of the Enaahtig Healing Lodge and Learning Centre. Tim currently serves as President of the founding Board for the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge, a partnership with Syracuse University and Empire State College, and serves as the Chair of the Wahta Mohawk Community Trust.
Tim is a strong proponent of Indigenous language revitalization, and is a proud graduate of Onkwawenna Kentiohkwa Mohawk language immersion program.
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Dr. Harvey P. Weingarten is president and CEO of The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO) — an arm’s length agency of the Ontario government that conducts research and provides policy advice to government to improve the accessibility, quality and accountability of colleges and universities. HEQCO is the only organization of its type in Canada. Since joining HEQCO in 2010, Dr. Weingarten has expanded the agency’s advisory role and influence with government and has orchestrated a larger public information mandate for HEQCO. Prior to
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Danika Billie Littlechild, Neyaskweyahk Ermineskin Cree Nation, is a lawyer working in Maskwacis, Alberta. Danika is the Vice-President of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. Danika is consulting legal counsel for the International Indian Treaty Council, an Indigenous NGO with United Nations ECOSOC General Consultative Status representing Indigenous Peoples in the Americas, the Caribbean and the Pacific. Danika advises First Nations and Indigenous representative organizations on matters pertaining to governance, education, health, water, and international law.

Catherine Scott is Director General, Labour Market Integration at Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The Directorate works with provincial and territorial partners and stakeholders to ensure that foreign credential recognition processes are fair, consistent, transparent and timely. In addition, she is responsible for apprenticeship policy and works closely with provinces and territories to coordinate the Red Seal Program to build a mobile and competent skilled trades’ workforce.
Prior to joining ESDC in 2008, Ms. Scott spent 10 years in management positions in several federal departments working on issues as diverse as official languages, North American regulatory cooperation and international sport policy. She began her career in the Quebec public service.
Born in Northern Ireland, Ms. Scott holds an undergraduate degree in political science and French from York University and an M.A. in International Relations from Université Laval.
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Corinne first joined CIC almost 6 year ago as the Director General of the Foreign Credentials Referral Office (FCRO). She has served as the Director General for Integration Branch and the FCRO with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) since January 2013, a role that has expanded her connections to settlement partners across Canada.
Between October 2007 and December 2008, Corinne was the Director General of the Labour Market Integration Directorate at HRSDC, responsible
Corinne graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of Ottawa in 1985 and received her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Calgary in 1991.
Corinne grew up in northern Saskatchewan and now makes her home in Chelsea, Quebec, with her two children.
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Ellis Edgars is from Haida Gwaii, and spent most of his life working in the Logging industry. Ellis is a Residential School Survivor and participated in healing programs which led him to return to education. Ellis participated in the Aboriginal University Bridging Program at Vancouver Island University and created a portfolio based on his prior learning, and returned home to Haida Gwaii with a renewed desire to connect with his culture and community. He is the father of two children and has a beautiful granddaughter.

Shelley is an Information Management specialist who focusses on the area of Information Governance and provides consultative services to organizations implementing the controls required to manage information and data.
Ms. Sapieha began her corporate career as a billing clerk at a major utility company in Calgary in 1988. After completing several work-related courses and developing personal leadership skills, she also earned increasing levels of responsibility, progressing to
Making a commitment to lifelong learning, then taking the steps and building the skills required has contributed to Shelley’s career progression. Most recently, she has utilized the PLAR process and network in pursuit of her learning goals. She is a graduate student at Dalhousie University, enrolled in the Master of Information Management program. She holds certificates in Adult Learning and in Marketing from the University of Calgary – Faculty of Continuing Education.
Shelley has previously held positions on the board of the Canadian Business Travel Association, representing Canada at an international round table, volunteered for the United Way of Calgary and assisted the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada with the annual walk to raise awareness of the organization. Shelley lives in Calgary and enjoys back country kayaking, hiking, and testing new recipes in the kitchen.
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Pre-conference A Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Primer Presenter: Ann Pedersen, Reframed Learning Concepts What quality assurance practices will best assist the process of assessing knowledge, skills and abilities of those educated/trained in Canada or beyond its borders? How do they align with employee engagement, employment, and succession planning? Can RPL practices be used to gain advanced standing in education? The challenge is to identify, document, assess, and recognize learning in a rigourous, cost effective, and efficient manner against the accepted competencies and standards of practice.
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Pre-conference B Facilitator: Rebecca Volk, Centre for Organizational Learning, Algonquin College; Presenters: Judy Harris, Manager, Policy and Research, Industry Training Authority; Christine Nielsen, CEO, Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS); Frank Vandenburg, Associate Director, New Brunswick PLAR (NBPLAR) Action Group Be a part of this unique opportunity to contribute to the renewal and validation of CAPLA’s RPL/PLAR Practitioner Competencies. Skilled and competent RPL Practitioners are essential to successful implementation of quality RPL practices and systems - no matter which institution, organization, sector, regulatory body, or workplace is utilizing RPL. |
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Pre-conference C Career Counselling: Pathways for Career Development Moderator: Rennais Gayle-Indire, Project Manager, Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies; Presenters: Presenting organizations from the fields of immigrant settlement, literacy, employment counselling, academic advising, human resource management and public policy include: Corinne Prince-St-Amand, Director General, Integration-Foreign Credentials Referral Office Branch, Citizenship and Immigration Canada; Catherine Scott, Director General, Labour Market Integration, Employment and Social Development Canada; Erin Polcyn Sailer, Executive Director, Policy and Programs, Manitoba Civil Service Commission; Eileen Kelly-Freake, Director, Employment Programs and Career Services, AXIS Association for New Canadians; Joan Connolly, Executive Director, Literacy Ontario Central South; Carol Timlin, Executive Director, Victoria County Career Services; Karine Hopper, Manager of Education Programs, National Association of Career Colleges; Cynthia Murphy, Director, Canadian Immigrant Integration Program; Toyin Fatona, Human Resources Coordinator, Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers; Teresa Francis, Director, New Program Development, Prior Learning Centre RPL as a 'promising practice' for career development practitioners – what is happening now and what could happen in the future |
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Manitoba Competency Standard for Adult Literacy Instructors: RPL Adult Literacy Instructor Process Presenter: Lois Morin, Manitoba Adult Learning and Literacy A Manitoba Adult Literacy Framework was developed and includes core competencies of a competent adult literacy instructor. From the framework, Adult Learning and Literacy developed an RPL Instructor Process for adult literacy instructors. The process included the development of an RPL Portfolio Guide, Toolkit, and self assessment documents. The materials were designed for adult literacy instructors to demonstrate their knowledge/ skills in accordance with the competency statements of the Manitoba Adult Literacy Training Framework. |
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Presenters: Keith Johnson, Independent project manager; Christine Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer, CSMLS Many internationally educated applicants to the profession have education and skills considerably different than that of a Canadian graduate. Directing applicants, early in the assessment process to potential, alternate careers may make better use of their skill system and decrease levels of unemployment and underemployment. |
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Presenter: Christel MacAloney, Futureworx Society In 2012, in partnership with employers and with support from the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education and other key community stakeholders, Futureworx began the development of a full cycle RPL model in response to unique needs of, previously unrecognized, mature learners. The presentation will focus on the process & methods used and provide a reflection on our experience. Presentation Topics will include:
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Round Table on Research: Open to Novice and Experienced Researchers in PLAR/RPL/RAC Presenter: Leah Moss, Champlain College - CAPLA Board member Research in any field of practice is an integral part of the evolution and development of new innovations. We conduct research in order to learn something new, to challenge a notion or to contribute knowledge to our field. The session will be conducted in a round table format and will begin with a brief introduction of what is meant by research. Subsequent to this introduction and definition of terminology, a facilitated round table discussion will take place. The goal is to create partnerships in research or in a research question to a researcher. |
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Maintaining Quality and Sustaining Momentum Presenters: Grant MacTavish, SIAST; Shirley Amichand, SIAST; Barb Gustafson, SIAST PLAR follows a life cycle in organizations from a frenetic start-up phase, to maintenance, and even decline. How can quality be assured, and support maintained? How can a strong base of PLAR capacity be maintained? How should PLAR processes and usage be reviewed?
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Presenters: Christian Blanchette, Faculty of Continuing Education, University of Montreal; Yves Tousignant, Faculty of Continuing Education, University of Montreal After 35 years of debate, discussions and lack of consensus, the Faculté de l'éducation permanente has proposed the first policy for Prior Learning Assessment to be adopted at the University of Montreal. A research intensive university, it has seen typical objections to the notion that PLAR could be an academically sound tool to be used in the pursuit of academic excellence. We will present the strategy and PLAR model adopted. We will draught a road map to PLAR in research intensive universities. |
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Competency-based Assessment in Nova Scotia – Lessons Learned in Practice Presenters: Clarence De Schiffart, Facilitator; Diane Gordon, Sponsor In 2013-14 the Nova Scotia Community College in partnership with the Department of Labour and Advanced Education piloted two competency assessment training programs. The training helps industry put a greater focus on identifying what individuals know and can do. Valuable lessons were learned by reviewing participant evaluations from classroom and practicum experiences. One thing that became clear, was the importance to distinguish competency assessment and prior learning assessment. This session will examine other changes being made and to hear about future direction for creating an exemplary competency assessment process and community of practice in NS. |
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Presenters: Jean-Pierre Lefebvre, Manager, RPL Service; Magali Marzo, Advisor Faculty of Continuing Education’s new Service for Recognition of Experience-based Learning aims to offer a rigorous, well-structured process bringing to facts-based decisions from the student as well as from the content specialist and the director of the program. What assessment tools have we especially chosen? How to generate added value for the applicant students, for the program managers and for the Faculty? We shall finally explain the building steps to produce the assessment tools chosen by our Faculty, their benefits and their limits, and we will talk about the special support we can offer applicants to build their portfolios. |
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Removing the Canadian Experience Barrier – Recognizing Experience, Facilitating Learning Presenters: Hon. Jean Augustine, PC, CM, Fairness Commissioner, Office of the Fairness Commissioner; Gillian Pichler, Director, Registration, Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia; Sam DiGiandomenico, Registrar, Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists; Priya Bhatia, Manager, Licensing and Accreditation, Law Society of Upper Canada Immigrant professionals have struggled to access the local employment and practical training opportunities needed to meet Canadian licensing requirements. Some regulators are developing alternative approaches using RPL principles.
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Presenter: Seonaigh MacPherson, BC PLAN / Dept. of Adult Education, University of the Fraser Valley This presentation shares an ongoing collaborative action initiative by BC PLAN (the BC Prior Learning Action Network) to develop accreditation standards for RPL/PLAR practitioner training in British Columbia. Results will be presented from an environmental scan of PLAR/RPL programs in Canada, with some international cases, and from a workshop process with key PLAR/RPL practitioners and stakeholders in BC to vet, revise, and/or validate the CAPLA PLAR/RPL practitioner competencies. Consideration will be given to how these program accreditation and competency standards will align with the proposed national CAPLA Quality Assurance Standards process. The session will invite feedback and discussion. |
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A Pan-Canadian Process of Assessing Competencies in Applied Science and Engineering Technologies Presenter: Charles Joyner, BC Prior Learning Action Network (BC PLAN) Fairness, transparency and consistency in assessing competencies to accelerate access to employment are fundamental tenets of Canadian regulatory authorities.
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RPL as ‘a good solution’ to sudden, high unemployment: the case of post-Celtic Tiger Ireland Presenter: Anne Murphy, Dublin Institute of Technology This workshop presentation describes the RPL dimension of a major Government labour market re-skilling initiative 'Springboard' used in post-Celtic Tiger Ireland when the unemployment rate rose from 2% in 2007 to 15% in 2012. It includes both the national policy context as well as the higher education academic experience of contributing to, and implementing, 'Springboard'. It also explains how RPL provided an opportunity for academic and pedagogic innovation in programme design and delivery, using examples from pharmaceuticals, architectural technology and food innovation. It concludes by identifying how the various traditions of RPL became elided as a unitary model in this context. |
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Presenters: Zuzanna Kucharski, Catholic Centre for Immigrants – Ottawa; Magdalene Cooman-Maxwell, LASI World Skills; Rick Tachuk, Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists The goals of the session will be to: identify linkages to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR); increase awareness and discussion on current alternative careers tools, supports, initiatives and resources; highlight and share information about successful initiatives; and encourage stakeholders to collaborate on alternative career initiatives. |
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Presenters: Dr. Ian Hunt, Associate Professor, Department of Adult Education, University of the Fraser Valley; Dr. Seonaigh MacPherson, Associate Professor, Department of Adult Education, University of the Fraser Valley This presentation outlines the development of a competency-based system of block credit PLAR, tested and implemented for students in the Adult Education Department at the University of the Fraser Valley. The BA in Adult Education is a mid-career program that recognizes PLAR as an important component of the degree, but where in practice PLAR proved difficult to implement. For Adult Education, PLAR was reframed and re-developed, from course-based credit to outcomes-based, block credit. For block credit PLAR to be tenable, it was essential that clearly aligned program learning outcomes be identified with associated adult education practitioner competencies. |
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Presenter: Gary McNeely, PLAR Coordinator This presentation outlines the strategies and objectives of the Rural Policy Learning Commons, an international project spanning Canada, US, Mexico, and Europe. Achieving the project's goals relies on the identification of the competency and experiential-based learning principles essential to those involved in implementing rural policy including academics, policy analysts, development professionals, community stakeholders, and government agencies. Whereas some professions – accountancy or medicine – have integrated competencies into their training and practice, a lack of literature on this issue overshadows rural policy. This project provides opportunities to innovate around rural policy attentive to diverse community voices and interests, and competing stakeholder agendas. |
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Open Badges and the Recognition of Learning Presenter: Don Presant, Learning Agents Open Badges are transparent, digital indicators of skills learned inside or outside the classroom. Learn how Open Badges can motivate and make assessment more visible and collaborative, and make ePortfolios come alive. This presentation will use emerging examples from a variety of sectors, including adult learning, higher education, immigrant integration and workplace learning. |
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Presenters: Paula Romanow, Registrar, Nova Scotia Career Development Association; Rebekah Skeete, Voluntary Certification Committee, NSCDA This presentation will outline the Nova Scotia Career Development Association's journey in developing a certification program, from its first conception in 2005 to its launch in the fall of 2014. It will discuss the challenges of taking a professional association to the next level from a small voluntary association of NS career development practitioners to a certifying body. Included will be an examination of: methods for educating the membership about the benefits of certification; determining the fee structure; developing and implementing policies and procedures, regulatory framework, communication protocols; training programs for assessors and proctors; quality assurance processes; and program sustainability. |
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Portfolio Based Language Assessment (PBLA): Engaging Language Learners Presenters: Kathy Hughes, Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks; Rana Ashkar, Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks Portfolio-Based Language Assessment (PBLA) is a teaching and assessment model designed to enhance nationwide consistency and standards of quality in English as a Second Language (ESL) training for adult newcomers to Canada. |
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Pilot Bridge Program: IEPs and the Canadian workplace Presenters: Margaret Riffell, Red River College; Kerri Caldwell Korabelnikov, Red River College; Victoria Schindle, Red River College HRSDC anticipates that 65% of the new labour force will be made up of landed immigrants due to Canada's aging population. Therefore, the skills shortage in the Canadian labour market will be met by Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPSs). It is essential that educational institutions implement innovative programming to assess IEPs' prior learning, bridge their gaps and provide opportunities for them to gain valuable workplace experience and facilitate access to the professional labour market. Red River College designed a pilot bridge program including relevant, fair and transparent RPL assessment tools for internationally trained civil engineers/ technologists. This 18-month program incorporates three major components that are often barriers for IEPs when obtaining professional employment: effective Communication, Canadian work experience and applied field-specific training. |
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Assisting Internationally Trained Professionals in Accreditation and Employment Presenters: Michael Lam, S.U.C.C.E.S.S.; Monica Mak, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. To verify that an Internationally Trained Professional's (ITP) education and job experience obtained overseas are equivalent to the standards established for Canadian workers, many ITPs must undergo a process known as foreign credential recognition. To assist ITPs in establishing themselves within the Canadian economy, S.U.C.C.E.S.S.' Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) Loan Project and Active Career Advancement Project (ACAP) deliver supporting services. The FCR Loan Project provides guidance and financial support to ITPs during the complex accreditation process. This presentation will enrich participants in their understanding of ITPs struggles, concerns and needs, as well as, recognizing current practices in assisting ITPs to find meaningful and sustainable employments. |
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Alberta Occupational Competencies & Recognition in the Settlement Sector Presenter: Rennais Gayle, Project Coordinator, AAISA AAISA is an umbrella organization of 19 member agencies. The association was established in 1980 and incorporated in 1987. AAISA's member agencies provide direct services in the areas of, but not limited to:
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Assessing the Employability of Immigrants with Skilled Trades Presenters: Jim Tallman, North Pacific Training & Performance Inc; Taruna Goel, North Pacific Training & Performance Inc; George Costello, Costello Logistics Solutions Inc; John O'Sullivan, CamProf Inc; Nigel Lloyd, CamProf Inc A shortage of skilled tradespersons looms as many employees approach retirement. Immigrants could make up much of the shortfall if small employers were willing to hire them. We want to share our experience to propose a suite of assessment tests that can provide reliable indicators and could be carried out by third-party assessment centres. |
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Presenters: Eva Schausberger, CamProf Inc; Scott Murray, DataAngel Inc; Marta Jacyniuk-Lloyd, CamProf Inc; Nigel Lloyd, CamProf Inc Credits suffer from conceptual and practical limitations, but credit transfer facilitates learners entering a program or transferring between institutions. We explore the issues with credits and offer an alternative basis for recognition, transfer and exemptions, based on Bloom's Trajectory of Learning (an update of Bloom's Taxonomy). |
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Aurora College Accredited Pathways Presenters: Heather McCagg-Nystrom, Aurora College; Karen Willy, Department of Education, Culture and Employment, GNWT Aurora College and the Department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE), Government of the Northwest Territories are partners in the development and implementation of the Adult Recognition Model (ARM). |
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Using RPL to increase student enrolment, retention and graduation Presenter: Joe Ranieri, Director Business Development, Algonquin College Recent labour market analysis and student demographics point to changing Ontario College student needs. There is a trending change with typical Ontario college student profiles; combined with employer skills and credential demands, the implementation of specific RPL and related activities are key enablers that help students, colleges, and employers deal with labour markets and changing student demographics realities. Algonquin College has embraced RPL as a strategic tool to help increase student enrolment, retention, and graduation rates. Algonquin believes the RPL participant target market goes beyond existing full-time students and includes prospective students as well as those that have completed a College program, but have not met graduation requirements. The beneficiaries of embracing RPL as a strategic tool include students, college, employers, and governments. |
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“Where did I learn that?” Exploring and Recognizing Random Learning: the 4th learning type Presenter: Frank Vandenburg, Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Canadian PLA practitioners are familiar with three types of learning commonly identified for assessment: formal, nonformal and informal learning. (Whether we can clearly differentiate them to clients is another story). Meanwhile, practitioners and researchers around the world are discussing the possibility of a fourth type of learning-the learning that “just happens” while you are living life. |
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The Canoe of Life Model: Indigenous Prior Learning Assessment and Portfolio Development Presenters: Sharon Hobenshield, Director, Aboriginal Education & Engagement; Janet Sinclair, Aboriginal Student Transition Advisor, Vancouver Island University; Ellis Edgars, Aboriginal University Bridging Program Graduate The Canoe of Life model of Prior Learning Assessment and Indigenous Portfolio process is grounded in the belief, expression, understanding and application of relationship with one’s self, family, community, and with the land. Because PLA looks back and also forward, PLA facilitates transformational learning, invites growth with one’s relationship with self and others, and reframes difficult times and setbacks from the past (always looking for strengths, knowledge and lived experience which can transfer to new learning situations). The Indigenous Portfolio development course at Vancouver Island University can be adapted for career and education exploration—recognizing that adults already have knowledge, skills, attitudes and abilities that can be utilized in new ways—thus establishing (or confirming) goals, and creating learning plans that lead to success. Portfolio development can also demonstrate Indigenous knowledge and competencies in specific areas of expertise. This workshop will focus on the impact of the portfolio as a tool to assist Aboriginal Adults returning to education and young Aboriginal Adult learners who lack a sense of direction and clarity related to education and career goals. The Canoe of Life model was developed in consultation with Elders and Coast Salish communities and blends with the Indigenous Prior Learning Assessment and Portfolio Development in facilitating learners to develop a sense of who they are, where they are from and where they are going. Our vision is that students will be able to formulate a strong sense of identity and appreciation for their indigenous and experiential knowledge, develop education and career goals, and create a Learning Plan and personal Indigenous Portfolio. |
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The International Indigenous RPL Collective – A Work in Progress Presenter: Karihwakeron Tim Thompson, Former President, First Nations Technical Institute In 2009, a steering committee comprised of representatives from Chile, Ecuador, South Africa and Canada came together to explore the development of an International Indigenous RPL Collective. The work was informed by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The vision of the Collective is based on the legitimacy of Indigenous languages, culture and ways of knowing. This workshop will:
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RPL at Red River College – Key Components for Quality RPL Practice Presenters: Deb Blower, RPL Facilitator, Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology; Lauren Waples, RPL Academic Advisor, Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology When a post-secondary institution commits to implementing RPL practices and processes there is an expectation that quality will be embedded in the system. How does this happen? What are some key components and quality practice tools and resources that help to ensure good practice? How can RPL processes ensure learners have access to valid, fair and transparent RPL practices? Red River College (RRC) has a long history of implementing Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) practices and uses key components to ensure quality. Join the Red River College RPL team to hear about strategies for quality RPL practice and to explore some of the challenges encountered when implementing a RPL system in a large post-secondary institution. |
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Quality Assurance and RPL – What’s In Your Manual? Presenters: Deb Blower, Chair, CAPLA RPL Standards Working Group, and RPL Facilitator, Red River College; Ann Pedersen, CAPLA QA Project Researcher/Writer, & Principal Consultant Reframed Learning Concepts What information do you need to be included in this practical manual to make it your ‘go to’ reference for quality practices in RPL? Why is quality practice in advising learners, candidates, and applicants and assessing their learning important for RPL in Canada? |
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Presenters: Sean Woodhead, Manager, Pathways & Academic Partnerships, Centennial College; Jan Carter, Manager, Immigrant Education, George Brown College This session is for conference attendees from Ontario colleges. The group will discuss the importance of completing an Ontario PLAR environmental scan, data to collect, delivery dates and potential funding sources for the research. If time permits, the group will also discuss current research on PLAR institutional costs and the importance of building a quality assurance mechanism into the PLAR process. |
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Moderator: Gail Hall; Presenters: Ann Pedersen, Researcher/Writer for CAPLA’s ‘Manual for QA in RPL’ project; Deb Blower, CAPLA RPL Standards Working Group Chair; Anne Murphy, Higher Education Policy Expert, Dublin Institute of Technology; Gernot Mitter, Senior Expert, Austrian Federal Chamber of Labour Individuals who use the recognition of prior learning in their work may be involved in advising possible learners/clients/candidates about their skills and competencies or about the RPL process; they may be assessing individual’s knowledge and skills; or they may be responsible for systems and processes in RPL. No system or organization can provide quality practices and processes in RPL without support for those who work there. What are the key supports needed, for the roles of advisor, assessor or system coordinator/facilitator, in general and/or within specific environments such as education, employment counselling and qualification assessment and recognition?
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Benchmarking UK and Irish Trades Qualifications Against Red Seal Standards Presenter: Cynthia Murphy, Canadian Immigrant Integration Program (CIIP) In March 2014, Colleges and Institutes Canada (formerly the Association of Canadian Community Colleges) signed an agreement with the UK's National Recognition Information Centre (UK NARIC). The agreement provided funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) for a benchmarking exercise to identify how British and Irish trade qualifications (in nine skill areas) would match up to Canadian requirements. This initiative was designed to support the new Federal Skilled Trades (FST) stream. |
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“How do I get there from here?” Creating Career Pathways through PLAR Presenter: Teresa Francis, Prior Learning Centre Prior Learning Centre has successfully piloted an individualized approach to delivering PLAR/Career Development services. Clients represented a continuum of needs and circumstances: self-directed individuals and those requiring comprehensive services and support; clients seeking academic admission, job advancement and career change; local clients and those at a distance. |
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A Competency Portfolio Pilot Project for Disadvantaged Populations Presenters include: Carol Timlin, Executive Director, Victoria County Career Services (VCCS); Joan Connolly, Executive Director, Literacy Ontario Central South; Amanda Middleton, Employment Counsellor, VCCS A third phase of the Competency Portfolio project has been funded by the Government of Ontario, under its ‘Employment Ontario Strategic Priorities’ which target vulnerable populations and those under-represented in the labour force. The workshop outcomes include
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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): A Best Practice Tool for Human Resource Management Presenter: Erin Polcyn Sailer, Executive Director, Manitoba Civil Service Commission Manitoba’s civil service is continually challenged to capitalize on the wealth of skill and knowledge available in a labour pool of people from diverse occupations and backgrounds. In addition to reducing the use of formal credentials as a criterion during recruitment and selection activities, the Manitoba Civil Service Commission has integrated the principles of RPL into its policies and procedures in a way that has served to reduce employment barriers and promote inclusion. The workshop will focus on how these principles can be practically applied in recruitment, job evaluation, and learning and development. The presentation will also include an overview of Manitoba’s award-winning Career Gateway Program – a program that has successfully increased access to employment opportunities to persons with a disability, visible minorities, and Aboriginal persons. |
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PLAR and Credit Transfer: Models and Methods Presenters: Frank Vandenburg, Department of Post-Secondary education, Training and Labour; Phil Belanger, NB Council on Articulations and Transfer (NBCAT); Stephen Chase, World Education Services (WES); Ann Marie Lyseng, Alberta Innovation and Advanced Education; Amanda Roberts, SAIT Polytechnic Across Canada (and beyond) jurisdictions are responding to PLAR and Credit Transfer in different ways:
Join our pan-Canadian panel who will share their experiences and work together to find common ground on this important recognition issue. |
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The World Assembly of Adult Education and Learning: What it is and How to Participate Presenter: Daniel Baril, International Council of Adult Education (ICÉA) In June 2015, Montreal will host the World Assembly of adult education and learning, an event held every four years by the International Council of Adult Education. For Canadians organizations and practitioners of adult education, this event is a major opportunity to share perspectives and practices with participants from all over the world. This workshop will give basic information about the World Assembly and will focus more practically on ways to participate in this unique event. |
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Presenters: Gilles Potvin, Employment and Social Development Canada; Bill Locke, Capacity Builders; Garth Johnson, Meticulon; Jean-Pierre Voyer, Social Research and Demonstration Corporation; Julie Rodier, Social Research and Demonstration Corporation This panel presentation is designed to introduce participants to the social innovation concept, and demonstrate how innovative approaches can leverage partnerships to better support vulnerable populations transition into the labour market. Two successful projects will be presented. |
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Viennese Qualification Strategy 2020 – PLAR as a new element of vocational training Presenter: Gernot Mitter, Austrian Federal Chamber of Labour The Viennese Municipality, backed by the social partners and the federal labour market service, has launched Qualification Strategy 2020 to increase the number of skilled workers in Vienna thus supporting the Viennese economic development and fighting unemployment. Maybe the most innovative part of this strategy is the use methods of PLAR in an environment of highly formalized vocational training. The presentation gives a review on the strategy, its rationale, objectives and first outcomes but is focused on the prerogatives and challenges to implement PLAR as a new element into a highly regulated system of vocational training. |
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Pathway to Success for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) – Certification and Licensure Stream Presenters: Ann Mann, Exec. Director CLPNNS; Karen Sigouin, Director of Registration Services, CLPNNS; Kelly McKnight, Projects Director, Health & HumanServices, NSCC; Judy Morrow, Practical Nurse Program Manager, NSCC The Pathway to Success consists of an assessment of the IENs current knowledge, provides for an orientation to the Canadian healthcare system and most importantly, educates the IEN to the role and scope of an LPN in NS. Of note, most Pathway participants have been educated as an RN in their home country. The program is delivered face to face over a 4 day period, three times annually in advance of the national exam, the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE). |
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Presenter: Leah Moss, CAPLA Board member The purpose of this presentation is to present the latest book by editors Judith Harris, Christine Wihak and Joy Van Kleef, entititled: Handbook on the Recognition of Prior Learning: Research and Practice. The presentation will cover the subjects in this book and the implications for future research in the area of Recognition of Prior Learning. |
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Migrating Job Profiles into a Comprehensive Competency Framework Presenters: Rhonda Sweeney, Developer/writer; Diane Gordon, Project Sponsor The Department of Labour and Advanced Education and the Nova Scotia Community College launched a pilot project was to assist a business to develop a competency framework based on their existing job descriptions. The focus of the project was to rewrite the existing job profiles into a comprehensive competency framework. During the project, job descriptions were formed, an interview process was developed and an employee guide for gap analysis within the strategy was developed. The documents developed enabled the business to gain useful and targeted tools for recruiting, hiring and assisting employees to transition within the business. |
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Appreciative Hiring of PLAR Professionals Presenter: Tetyana Tsomko, PLAR advisor, Champlain College The presentation explores new pathways to more effective results in PLAR practices by applying appreciative inquiry techniques to hiring PLAR advisors. These techniques are most effective when their values, needs, and interests are aligned with the values of PLAR and the educational institution. Can a typical 30-45 minute interview identify a person's fit to PLAR? Can the use of AH in hiring processes not only serve to locate and hire the right people for the PLAR team, but also ensure they are put in the positions suited to their strengths? Who can contribute to identifying person-PLAR fit and values congruence? |
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Thompson Rivers University – Open Learning: Credit Bank Presenter: Nicole Borhaven, TRU - OL PLAR Advisor One way that Thompson Rivers University – Open Learning (TRU-OL) students gain PLAR credits for their non-formal learning is through our Credit Bank. This involves creating Strategic Partnerships with a variety of non-accredited training providers to allow the application of formally assessed credit toward students' programs at TRU-OL. We will discuss the processes involved with the Articulation Agreements, from formation to application of credit, and the experience of our students who access this. We will also explain the process where we assess non-formal courses/programs (e.g. industry certifications) that are well-recognized but not part of our Articulation Agreements. |
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Thinking of Doing: The Mind at Work Presenter: Thomas Kerr, Harry Van Arsdale Jr. Center for Labor Studies, Empire State College-SUNY Thinking of Doing: The Mind at Work will present the outcome of a group study course of the same name offered to a cohort of IBEW Local 3 electrical industry union labor leaders in New York City. The 14-week course enabled 13 students to develop not only PLA requests but also understand what it means to “know” something therefore knowing what is meant by “prior learning”. Reading writers such as John Dewey, Paulo Freire, and even Michel de Montaigne, these students came to see themselves as “learners” who understand ways they can use experiential learning to develop further practices on-the-job and in their personal or professional/union lives. |
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Sunday, November 2
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8:30 am – 9:00 am | Registration/Information Desk | First Floor Corridor |
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9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Pre-Conference Workshops | Various rooms |
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6:00 pm – 7:30 pm | Registration/Information Desk | French Corridor |
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6:30 pm – 8:00 pm | Opening Reception | French Corridor |
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Monday, November 3
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8:30 am – 5:00 pm | Registration/Information Desk | French Corridor |
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8:00 am – 9:00 am | Continental Breakfast | French Corridor |
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9:00 am – 10:00 am | Opening Plenary | Ballroom |
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10:00 am – 10:30 am | Nutrition Break | French Corridor |
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10:30 am – 11:30 am | Concurrent Workshops |
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11:30 am – 1:00 pm | Lunch | Ballroom |
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1:15 pm – 2:15 pm | Concurrent Workshops |
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2:15 pm – 2:30 pm | Nutrition Break | French Corridor |
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2:30 pm – 3:30 pm | Concurrent Workshops |
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3:45 pm – 4:45 pm | Concurrent Workshops |
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4:45 pm – 5:30 pm |
CAPLA Annual General Meeting All CAPLA members are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served. |
Quebec Suite |
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7:30 pm – 9:00 pm | Annual ROL Networking Dinner (optional) |
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Tuesday, November 4
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8:30 am – 4:30 pm | Registration/Information Desk | French Corridor |
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8:30 am – 9:00 am | Continental Breakfast | French Corridor |
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9:00 am – 10:00 am | Concurrent Workshops |
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10:00 am – 10:15 am | Nutrition Break | French Corridor |
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10:15 am – 11:15 am | Conversation Café | Ballroom |
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11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Concurrent Workshops |
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12:30 pm – 2:00 pm | Lunch (on your own) |
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2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Concurrent Workshops |
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3:15 pm – 4:15 pm | Concurrent Workshops |
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Registration & Hotel


Fairmont Château Laurier
Reflecting the confidence, dignity and style of Canada's capital city, Fairmont Château Laurier stands as a testament to this dynamic, thriving city. Located next door to the Parliament Buildings, the landmark Fairmont Château Laurier hotel in Ottawa is a magnificent limestone edifice with turrets and masonry reminiscent of a French château. This luxury downtown Ottawa hotel near Parliament Hill enchants guests with its charm and stateliness.![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
![]() | Fairmont Château Laurier 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1N 8S7 | Phone: 1-613-241-1414 Fax: 1-613-562-7030 Toll-free (Room reservations only): 1-866-540-4410 |
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Preferred Room Rate $179.00 / night + tax |

Conference Secretariat
Agenda 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
Registration Fees


Conference Registration Fees:
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CAPLA Member Registration | $ 549.00 | + tax ($ 71.37) = | $ 620.37 | ![]() |
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Non Member Registration | $ 649.00 | + tax ($ 84.37) = | $ 733.37 | ![]() |
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One Day Registration | $ 319.00 | + tax ($ 41.47) = | $ 360.47 | ![]() |
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Pre-conference Session | $ 195.00 | + tax ($ 25.35) = | $ 220.35 | ![]() |
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Speaker Registration | $ 444.00 | + tax ($ 57.72) = | $ 501.72 | ![]() |
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Exhibitor Registration | $ 500.00 | + tax ($ 65.00) = | $ 565.00 | ![]() |
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Please note the CAPLA Member and Non-member conference registration fees do not include the pre-conference workshops. There is an additional $195+tax cost to attend the pre-conference workshops.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations received in writing prior to October 20, 2014 will be charged a $55 administrative fee. Cancellations received after this date will not be refunded. Replacements will be accepted with a request received in writing from the registered participant. Cancellations and replacements should be forwarded to the Conference Secretariat.Conference Secretariat
Agenda 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
CAPLA Membership


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![]() | ![]() | The application form is available here as a PDF document. You can view and print PDFs with the free Adobe Reader. |
Other Events

Recognition of Learning (ROL)
Networking Dinner

Date: Monday, November 3, 2014
Time: 7:30 pm
Place: TBA
A reservation sign-up sheet will be circulated at the Pre-conference B Session on Sunday, November 2 and will also be available at the CAPLA Conference Registration desk on Sunday evening and Monday morning. Deadline to reserve is noon on Monday, November 3. Limited places so please sign up early.


The session will begin with a short overview of the work on CAPLA’s ‘Pan-Canadian RPL Quality Assurance Project’. No system or organization can provide quality practices and processes in RPL without support for those who work there. What are the key supports needed, for the functions of advising, assessing or system development/management, in general and/or within specific environments such as education or labour market (employment counselling, career counselling, qualification assessment and recognition)?
The session will focus on the following questions, providing initial ideas from input by RPL practitioners in Canada and internationally, and allowing time for participant input/discussion on these topics (in the session and on-line).
- What are the main barriers for good practice for each function (advising, assessing, systems development/management)?
- What do each of these practitioner functions need to support their development and/or the enhancement (continuous improvement) of their work?

Monday, November 3, 2014
4:45 pm – 5:30 pmAll CAPLA members are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served.
2014 Canadian RPL Awards


Award Criteria:
- The three categories for nominations include
- a person
- a program (public policy/special initiatives) or
- institution/organization
- The nominees must be Canadian, an immigrant to Canada, a Canadian program or institution
- The achievement/contributions must reflect activities that occurred between the years 2012 – 2014.
- The Award Selection Committee will consider
- how the nominee demonstrated commitment to and promotion of RPL
- the results achieved and the developmental nature of the work
- whether the achievement has had or may have some lasting benefit within the field of practice.
- Nominations must be submitted by
Tuesday, 30 September, 2014.


24.138.76.151