Australia: an overview of 20 years of research into the recognition of prior learning (RPL)

Australia introduced recognition of prior learning (RPL) as part of a national training reform agenda that included the introduction of a competency-based vocational education and training (VET) system, a national qualification system and training packages. RPL is now a standard and requirement of any offering of accredited training that is embedded in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This chapter begins with a brief contextual overview of the history of RPL, framing policies, ongoing conceptual and definitional confusion, and the extent of implementation. The main part of...  [+] Show more

Australia introduced recognition of prior learning (RPL) as part of a national training reform agenda that included the introduction of a competency-based vocational education and training (VET) system, a national qualification system and training packages. RPL is now a standard and requirement of any offering of accredited training that is embedded in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This chapter begins with a brief contextual overview of the history of RPL, framing policies, ongoing conceptual and definitional confusion, and the extent of implementation. The main part of the chapter explores Australian RPL research, with particular reference to the VET and higher education (HE) sectors. Major government-funded and commissioned research on RPL is presented with a summary of methodological approaches. Themes within the research literature are identified and discussed. In conclusion, the author discusses gaps in research and future research opportunities, calling for a widening of the RPL research agenda, more theoretical and critical perspectives, and greater diversity in terms of lines of inquiry and methodological approaches.