The RPL Skills Express Toolkit: a quality 'no frills' electronic recognition tool for VET

The RPL Skills Express Toolkit (RPLSET) constitutes a radical online approach to processing recognition of prior learning (RPL). The tool takes a holistic approach to RPL that emulates closely practices in industry, in this case hairdressing. In addition it mirrors the risk management processes that are common throughout most businesses, large and small. Based on sophisticated mapping of the Hairdressing Training Package (WRH06), the tool contains a range of projects, skills and activities that enable RPL candidates to make claims about their respective skill sets. The tool covers Certificate III, IV and Diploma in Hairdressing. Candidates undertake self paced RPL electronically and are able to transfer their results via email to an assessor or RTO. A range of reports are included that enable assessors to identify specific outcomes and review a candidate's progress across all relevant core competency units and performance criteria. Evidence from the pilot study suggests that this has streamlined the RPL process significantly. The benefits derived from the RPLSET include better assessment validation, easier identification of gap training needs and more refined evidence requirements. Candidates can complete and submit for assessment at the time of enrolment. This project presented challenges that are inherent in meeting the wide range of needs of all the stakeholders and at the same time reflecting the complexities of the real workplace. This and the learning philosophy behind the development of RPLSET will be discussed in the paper. While the initial toolkit has been developed for the hairdressing industry, it is adaptable to a wide range of disciplines and industries.

Authors' abstract.

A list of the presentations from this conference may be found at TD/TNC 100.972; available papers are indexed from TD/TNC 100.973 to TD/TNC 100.986. Show less