linking theory and practice with work based learning (wbl) · linking theory and practice with work...

Linking theory and practice with Work Based Learning (WBL)

Oran DohertyLetterkenny Institute of Technology

Presentation plan

RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)

RPL for the Labour Market

WBL (Work Based Learning)

Sample WBL Programmes

Prerequisites for a successful WBL programme

Introduction to RPL

RPL involves awarding an applicant recognition in the form of

initial or advanced admission to a programme, credits within a

programme or exemption(s) from element(s) of a programme or

an award.

– Access on to programmes

– Exemptions

– Awards

Background to RPL at LYIT

2006 LYIT Participated in a government funded project aimed

at recognising Learning in the Workplace.

Specifically the project involved recognising with a third level

qualification (e.g. single subject certificate) learning achieved

in IT and Business that occurred in the individual’s

personal life or in the work environment.

Practical exampleRPL – to get an award

RPL Facilitator vested and presented to companies throughout

the North West of Ireland

Between 2006-2008, 387 employees completed portfolio in:

– Customer Care

– Computer Applications

– Training and Support

– HRM

– Communications

Practical exampleRPL – to get an award

Example of a learners with Customer Care skills seeking third level qualification

Sample Assignment

Customer Care\RPL Learning Outcomes.doc

Sample Portfolio

Customer Care\Customer Care RPL Portfolio Julie.docx

Sample assessment document

Customer Care\Assessment Sheet.doc

Practical exampleRPL – to access a programme

Assessment to access the Masters in Innovation and Leadership

MBS Assignment.doc

Sample RPL portfolio

Sample RPL Portfolio.docx

Work Based Learning (WBL)

Shift on emphasis from RPL to WBL 2010

Work Based Learning (WBL) is where an Employer (or

employer representative body) and a HE institute

come together to develop and deliver a training programme.

3 parties:

• Learner

• Employer / Employer Representative

• HE Institute

Sample WBL programmes

1. Higher Cert in IT Support -Pramerica (2010-12)

Level 6 Programme (120 Credits)

Normally this programme would take 2 years for our full time

students (Monday-Friday) but due to combination of RPL,

WBL, E-Learning and Mentoring, full time employees from

the IT Sector can complete programme 2 mornings per week

over 18 months

Accelerated Higher Cert IT SupportMondays & Wednesdays 9.30-12.30

Module Credits Taught Hours

Dates

Study Skills 5 12 September 2013

Computer Systems 5 30 September - December 2013

Operating Systems 5 30 September - December 2014

Software Development 1 5 30 January-March 2014

Computer Networks 1 5 30 January-March 2014

Workplace Learning (RPL) 60 0 April-September 2014

Computer Networks 2 5 30 April 14th - July 7th 2014

Operating Systems 2 5 30 April 16th-June 25th 2014

Computer Applications (RPL) 5 0 July & August 2014

Software Development 2 5 30 September - November 2014

Database Technology 5 30 September - November 2014

Mainframe Development 1 5 30 January - March 2015

Quality Testing 1 5 30 January - March 2015

3. BBS IN RETAIL MANAGEMENT PRACTICE

2009, Irish Business and Employer Confederation (IBEC)

Retail Skillnet approached Letterkenny Institute of Technology

(LYIT) about the possibility of jointly developing and delivering

a Retail Degree Programme.

LYIT - good track record working in partnership with

employers.

Dedicated Work Based Learning Facilitator

Challenges for the Education Providerin delivering WBL programmes

Fear – familiar with dealing with full time students (training

required)

Getting lecturers to agree (time constraints, fear of employers)

Time to develop programme (typically could take 6-12 months

to develop…)

Resources – rooms, lecturers, time …….

Because training is usually intensive, extremely important

learners attend.

Prerequisites for successful WBL Partnership between industry and HE

1. Trust and Commitment

2. Communications

3. Planning and Direction

4. Programme Design and Delivery (sector specific, start of small)

5. Flexible – change of modules, content, timing, minimum

disruption – e-learning

Prerequisites for successful WBL Partnership between industry and HE

6. Assessment – linked to the workplace

7. Bridging cultural barriers

8. RPL

9. Selection of suitable applicants

10. Lecturers and guest lecturers

11. Proper induction

Next Steps

Develop further WBL programmes with national and

international employers using retail model

Participate in an EU project exploring Work Based Learning

Examine on-line technology to support WBL programmes

(e.g. e-portfolio)

Currently completing DBA that examines how cultural

differences between industry and HE providers can be

overcome in WBL partnerships.

Contact Details

Oran Doherty

RPL/WBL Facilitator LYIT

Phone: 00353 749186707

Email: oran.doherty@lyit.ie