Chapter 1: Understanding PLAR
1.0 PLAR Overview
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Title: “What is PLAR?”
Main Section: PLAR stands for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. It is the process used by the college to assess the knowledge and skills you have gained through work and life experience. This helps determine if your learning through experience is eligible for college credit toward a course or program requirement.
PLAR Tools Section: PLAR uses a variety of tools to help you reflect on, identify, articulate, and, where appropriate, demonstrate your learning.
Three Subsections:
What’s Eligible?
- Work experience
- On-the-job training
- Self-study
- Volunteer experience
- Military training
- Engagement with First Nations, Métis, or Inuit knowledge systems and traditions
Requirements: The learning to be assessed through PLAR should be current, relevant to the Fanshawe College course/program outcomes, and demonstrate the breadth and depth of college-level learning.
Benefits:
- Saves time
- Promotes self-confidence
- Increases access to education
- May reduce school costs
- Could shorten the time to complete a college program
- Supports career development
- May lighten course loads
Get Started with PLAR: The Admissions and Pathways Advising Centre is the central contact point for PLAR. Advisors can answer general questions and guide you through the application process. To schedule an appointment, visit fanshawec.ca/booknow or call 519-452-4277, or email advising@fanshawec.ca.
Important Note: PLAR does not apply when seeking credit for courses taken at other colleges or universities. Post-secondary credits can be assessed through the Transfer Credit process.
At the bottom right, it mentions the official college policy on PLAR (Policy A124: Recognition of Prior Learning).
