Linking theory and practice with Work Based Learning (WBL) Oran Doherty Letterkenny Institute of Technology.

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 AssignmentCustomer Care\RPL Learning Outcomes.doc

Sample PortfolioCustomer Care\Customer Care RPL Portfolio Julie.docx

Sample assessment documentCustomer Care\Assessment Sheet.doc

Practical exampleRPL – to access a programme

Assessment to access the Masters in Innovation and Leadership MBS Assignment.doc

Sample RPL portfolioSample 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 Support

Mondays & Wednesdays 9.30-12.30Module Credit

sTaught Hours

Dates

Study Skills 5 12 September 2013

Computer Systems 5 30September - December 2013

Operating Systems 5 30September - December 2014

Software Development 1 5 30 January-March 2014Computer Networks 1 5 30 January-March 2014Workplace Learning (RPL) 60 0 April-September 2014Computer Networks 2 5 30 April 14th - July 7th 2014Operating Systems 2 5 30 April 16th-June 25th 2014Computer Applications (RPL) 5 0 July & August 2014

Software Development 2 5 30September - November 2014

Database Technology 5 30September - November 2014

Mainframe Development 1 5 30 January - March 2015Quality 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 Provider in 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

HE6. 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 DohertyRPL/WBL Facilitator LYIT

Phone: 00353 749186707Email: [email protected]