RPL Fundamentals
About the role of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Division
The role of the RPL Unit is to assist both the applicants and the institution with RPL.
The Unit assists the applicant and the department by being involved in the planning of the assessment. Once the assessment has been done, the RPL unit confirms (or not) the decision. The unit is also involved in appeal case.
Introductory information on RPL at CPUT
What is RPL?
Recognition of Prior Learning is the process of assessing and, where appropriate, accrediting the acquired knowledge, competencies and capabilities of a person, gained in formal, informal or non-formal learning. RPL is conducted with reference to outcomes in a formal qualification, levels on the NQF and, where relevant, particular workplace and social competencies (Source: RPL policy).
Why RPL?
The reasons for Recognition of Prior Learning are several:
- RPL is an integral part of the promotion of life-long learning. It is a means of creating learning pathways for individuals and is integral to the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
- RPL is an acknowledgement of the value of an individual’s past learning and experience in a variety of contexts. It is a vehicle for addressing past inequities in training and education and provides an opportunity for future development.
- RPL is a means of broadening access to Higher Education.
- Both staff and students are offered the opportunity to gain recognition of prior learning. RPL assessment takes place against current programmes and qualifications at CPUT.
The RPL process at CPUT
The academic RPL process at the CPUT is guided by the CPUT RPL policy and the CPUT Policy for the Assessment of Student Learning. If a potential student or staff member is interested in applying for RPL, this person will be requested by the Faculty to complete an on-line screening questionnaire. The completed questionnaire is evaluated by the academic head of department, and if the feasibility for RPL is established the process can begin.
- The Department in consultation with the candidate selects and plans the appropriate method/s of assessment. These may include a challenge exam or test, interview, examples of work and/or portfolio of evidence.
- The assessment plan is implemented by collecting relevant evidence and the candidate participating in the assessment activities.
- The evidence for the assessment is evaluated and a decision is made by the two academic members of staff in the department.
- The decision is about granting access or advanced standing or both. (See FAQs for more detail.) If the decision is positive it is discussed at faculty level. This decision is submitted as a recommendation to the Senate Executive (SENEX) after moderation has taken place. SENEX makes a decision based on the submission.
Contact us
Relevant people dealing with RPL at CPUT
Fundani:
Frederika de Graaff
Tel +27 21 959 6911
Email:
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Faculty:
Each faculty will appoint designated persons for RPL, whose names will be added to this website as and when these are appointed. If you are unsure about who to speak to, especially subject related enquires about RPL, please speak to the Head of the Department.
Administration of RPL applications is done by designated persons in the Faculty in consultation with Fundani.
