Belleville, Ontario, May 22, 2014 – Loyalist College is pleased to host the 25th annual Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Conference from May 27th to 30th at the Travelodge Hotel, Belleville.
As a strong supporter of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), Loyalist works with other advocates to bring together individuals who are actively engaged in PLAR to advance adult-oriented approaches to training and education. Featured speakers at the conference include Retired Professor Carolyn Mann of Sinclair Community College, Dayton, Ohio, and Kessie Moodley, Director of Workers’ College, Durban, South Africa.
Professor Mann developed Sinclair Community College’s Academic Credit Information Centre, which has been recognized internationally for its leadership in PLA and adult learner-friendly practices. She is a pioneer in PLA implementation both in Canada and the United States and has attended each of the previous conferences held in Belleville.
“It has been my privilege to attend the conference every year,” says Professor Mann. “PLAR is really about helping learners grow and achieve their personal and professional goals. This conference has advanced that work and supports the people who are trying to make a difference in the lives of learners. Every year I have come away with new knowledge and ideas, as well as being re-energized.”
Mr. Moodley has played a similarly important role at Workers’ College, implementing prior learning assessment as a tool to help build the intellectual and organizational capacities of students, working toward social transformation and access to higher education.
Paul Zakos, Chair of the Conference Planning Committee, has worked with PLAR groups in South Africa, Chile, Equador, the United States, across Canada, and has completed a two-year project in Nunavut.
“I have seen the power PLA has to help people move forward in their lives,” Mr. Zakos explained. “It helps them to value their learning, and raises their spirits in ways that one could never imagine. I’ve seen this in mainstream and indigenous communities. As a result, people go back to school, change jobs – the PLA impact is positive and powerful.”
“You gain life experience in many ways, through volunteer work, self-learning, travel or previous training,” says Loyalist College President Maureen Piercy. “For many years Loyalist has been a leader in the process of validating prior learning. Learning achievements can be used towards the requirements of an academic or training program, occupational or professional certification, or entry to employment.”
As primary and long-term sponsors of the annual PLAR conference, the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) and the East Central Ontario Training Board support PLAR and the conference. More information is available online at loyalistcollege.com/events/pla-conference-xxv.
Loyalist College prepares students for rewarding careers by combining rigorous academic standards with hands-on training from industry experts. Programs range from apprenticeships and certificates to diplomas and post-graduate studies. Loyalist offers 65 full-time programs and 77 university transfer agreements around the world. The best testament to the College’s value is from students, 96 percent of whom say they would recommend Loyalist to a friend. Loyalist is committed to helping students find great jobs, and to supporting and enhancing the economic and social development of all individuals in its communities.
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Contact: Kerry Lorimer, Director, Marketing and Communications,
Loyalist College, klorimer@loyalistc.on.ca, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2536