Psychology (PSYC) 205
Prior Learning Assessment and Portfolio Development

Revision 1 closed August 11, 2003, replaced by current version.

Note: This course is for students in programs at Athabasca University. It is not intended to transfer credit to other institutions. It is best taken near the beginning of the program.Credit obtained elsewhere for course work cannot be considered for additional credit through the portfolio process. Students who enrol in PSYC 205 and have credit obtained elsewhere to be transferred into their program plan, will need to pay for a credit evaluation. Please check the latest version of the AU Calendar for the fee involved.

Delivery mode: Individualized study. Online-enhanced.
Credits: 3 - Social Science
Prerequisite: None, however, experiential learning that is related to an academic program of study offered at Athabasca University is recommended. It is also recommended that students have credit already in some university-level courses and possess a literacy level in line with university studies.
Precluded course: PSYC 205 cannot be taken for credit if credit has already been obtained for CADE 205.
Centre/Career: Centre for Psychology. University Certificate in Career Development
Challenge for Credit: PSYC 205 has a Challenge for Credit option.
Learn more online: Course home page (to be changed to PSYC 205)

>> Overview | Outline | Evaluation | Course Materials | Course Fees | Course Availability


Overview

This course is designed foremost as an educational process to facilitate an adult student's review of his or her prior experiential learning in order to be awarded appropriate academic credit. In this context, "prior" means learning that is prior to the academic program or credential that is under consideration. The educational process culminates with the completion of a portfolio. The portfolio is the means by which academic assessors determine what a person has learned "outside of school" and what credit, if any, should be awarded. Participants who successfully complete the portfolio will be awarded credit for this course and in addition will be able to petition for more credit through the portfolio. There is no guarantee that a petition will be successful. Ultimately, responsibility for the completeness and quality of the portfolio rests with the student.

Outline

The course consists of the following eight units.

  • Unit 1 Understanding Prior Learning Assessment and Portfolio Development
  • Unit 2 Identifying Career Goals, Education Objectives, and Employability Skills
  • Unit 3 Researching Your Degree Program Major
  • Unit 4 Articulating Experiential Learning as Learning Clusters
  • Unit 5 Writing Learning Statements
  • Unit 6 Developing a Summary Transcript
  • Unit 7 Developing Other Perspectives on Learning
  • Unit 8 Putting It All Together

Evaluation

This course is evaluated on a pass/fail basis that reflects a mastery learning model. All unit assignments are components of the final portfolio.

Course Materials

The course materials include an Assignment Booklet and Study Guide that includes extensive commentary and directions.

Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice.
Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized-study counterparts.

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Opened in Revision 1, February 28/03.
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This page was updated by G. Zahara