The Canadian Association for Prior Learning Assessment (CAPLA) presents
Fall Focus WorkshopThe Currency of Competencies –Revival, Rewards and Risks
November 17–19, 2013 Toronto, ON Canada
Theme: Changing our approaches to learning and assessment can be uncomfortable yet energizing. Free courseware (massive open online courses - MOOCs) and other informal and non-formal learning opportunities are emerging, leading to questions about knowledge transfer and learning assessment. Are we ready to embrace these new trends? In order to evaluate the experience of newcomers, are regulatory bodies and employers emphasizing the assessment of competencies and skills with a greater sense of urgency? Will post-secondary institutions have to open new learning assessment centres to meet the demand of savvy incoming students with years of experience and professional development courses behind them but no formal transcripted credit?
This conference will explore the systemic and practical implications of moving to a competency-based education/training and regulatory system and its implications for assessment practices and labour force development. The following questions will inform our discussions:
What are competencies and how do we measure them?
If terms like knowledge, skills and abilities are the same as competencies and easier to understand for adult learners and employers, why change?
What is the cost/benefit for regulatory bodies, academic institutions, sector councils and other credentialers of learning?
What are the implications for the assessment and recognition of prior learning (RPL)?
What are the implications for settlement agencies, academic advisors and employment counsellors?
What are other countries doing?
What are the public policy considerations?
Can we unlock the doors to Canada’s learning recognition system so adults can benefit from their past, present and future accomplishments?.
Venue: We are happy to welcome you back to the unique charm of the One King West Hotel. It is the original 1879 Dominion Bank building, refurbished in the spirit of a 19th century apartment hotel. Walk up the original marble and bronze staircase, have lunch in the Grand Banking Hall with its 40 foot ceilings, attend a workshop in the mahogany paneled boardroom and have a cocktail in the original Vault with its four foot doors. Call the hotel directly at 1-866-470-5464 to take advantage of our preferred conference rate of $149. Please reference CAPLA when booking your room.
Sponsorship! CAPLA is looking for individuals and organizations who are able to provide financial support to assist with the costs associated with this important event. Please contact us at 613-860-1747 or to hear more.
Conference registration fees start at $385. Watch this space for updated information or call the Conference Secretariat at 1-877-731-1333.
Think about something you have learned this week, this month or this year and how it has contributed to your skills and competencies as a citizen, an employee, a volunteer or a parent. Regardless of whether you learned it at home, in school or at work, all learning is valuable and can contribute to who you are, what you know and can do and where your next job opportunity might be found. For additional information on International Adult Learner’s Week, visit www.unesco.ca. To see more about the recognition of prior learning (RPL), go to www.recognitionforlearning.ca.
Other News
Strategic Advisory Panel on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Click here for a PDF with more information on the New Strategic Advisory Panel on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Web Page for Past Conferences
Visit the "Past Conferences" page to view proceedings and other information regarding prior CAPLA events. You can access this page from our menu at left.
Going to Canada Online Portfolio Model
Human Resources and Skills Development are working in partnership with
Citizenship and Immigration, Industry Canada and Foreign Affairs to enhance
the Going to Canada web site so that it becomes a one-stop immigration
portal. The on-line service will provide useful information for those
considering immigration as well as for those wanting to make their
integration into Canadian life less difficult.
Recognitionforlearning.ca is an online community of practice to advance the assessment and recognition of prior learning in Canada.
The Canadian Association for Prior Learning Assessment (CAPLA) is leading the development, which is
being supported the Office of Learning Technologies Community Initiatives Fund and Industry Canada (School Net) and by the following project partners:
The Centre for the Study of Education and Work, University of Toronto
Conestoga College and the Cross Canada Study partners
Dr. Morris Keeton, University of Maryland
Mohawk College
The University of Saskatchewan
Recognitionforlearning.ca will serve those who need PLAR services as well as those who develop,
provide, regulate and research them, including adult learners, employers, education providers,
the military, government agencies, community organizations, sector councils, labour, groups seeking
equity, occupational associations, settlement services for immigrants and consultants.
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.
Copyright by Canadian Association for Prior Learning Assessment.
