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Micro-credential: Understanding and Applying R.P.L. in Tertiary Education

Qualification : MICRO-CREDENTIAL (8)

Award Type and NFQ level : MICRO-CREDENTIAL (8)

CAO/PAC code : MMC48

CAO Points :

Closing Date : 14 October 2024

View QQI details

This is an APPROVED COURSE for the HCI Pillar 3 50% Learner Fee Subsidy. For more information see our webpage.

Overall aim: 

The aim of the micro credential is to provide a clear, comprehensive, and user-friendly approach to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) that outlines its positive impacts in education. 

Learning outcomes: 

On completion of the micro credential students will be able to: 

- Understand the key principles of RPL including its theoretical considerations. 

- Analyse existing RPL practices with an emphasis on their own institution and practices. 

- Evaluate national RPL policies in the context of wider European education frameworks. 

- Develop skills in designing assessment strategies for evaluating prior learning in a way that is fair and transparent. 

- Advocate for RPL practices with an emphasis on their capacity to create more diverse learning environments that recognise different ways of learning. 

Teaching methods

This blended module will be delivered both on campus and online. Participants will be required to attend in person on two days where learning will be supported through formal lectures, group discussion, small group work, and shared experiences. 

Additionally, students will attend four online sessions which will also be characterised by collaborative, dialogic learning. 

Assessment

A mixed approach to assessment will include group assessment and an individual reflective learning journal.

Session 1 In person, full-day, (10am-4pm) 4th November 

This introductory day offers an overview of the programme, details on its structure and contents and the assessment methods to be used. It will also introduce students to theoretical foundations of RPL including a historical overview. 

Sessions 2-4 Online (4pm-6pm), 11th, 18th, 25th November

This will be followed by three, two-hour online sessions which will introduce national and international policy dimensions as well as legal, ethical and practical implications of RPL. Students will be encouraged to set clear, practice related objectives for their own work and identify and troubleshoot the challenges of applying RPL.  

Session 5 In person, full day, (10am-4pm) 2nd December

This final day will recap on the key themes identified throughout the programme, in corporate aspects of assessment and evaluate the programme overall. 

Course Duration: 6 weeks, part-time

This is a stand-alone, continuous professional development award for anyone working in tertiary educational environments (Further Education and Higher Education) who wishes to improve their capacity to apply recognition of prior learning to their own practice.

This table displays the requirements for Leaving Certificate applicants.
Subject Required Ordinary Level Grade Higher Level Grade
Irish No N/A N/A
English No N/A N/A
Language No N/A N/A
Math No N/A N/A
Science No N/A N/A

International & EU/EFTA Entry Requirements

Additional Information

Applicants do not require a primary degree. However, they do need to be working in an education setting where they are involved with the teaching, accreditation and/or quality assurance of Further Education and Training Programmes.

Participants should have experience writing assignment briefs and interpreting quality assurance frameworks.

Applicants with relevant and sufficient professional experience and/or other formal education can apply via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Visit the RPL webpage for further information and to complete the RPL Application form.

For more information on the minimum English language requirements, please refer to the Language Competencies section of the Maynooth University Micro-credentials Entry Requirements and the English Language Requirements tab here for the tests and scores that are accepted.

Online application only. Please CLICK HERE to apply.

The following documents should be uploaded to your online application form:

  • Valid passport / passport card OR birth certificate.
  • Official University Degree Parchment or Transcript (if applying with a qualification). In such cases, the Transcript / Parchment must include full name, name of the qualification, conferring date and name of awarding body.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application form (if applying as a professional with relevant experience).
  • Marriage Certificate (for students who wish to register in their married name).
  • Proof of English language competency (where relevant).

Note: failure to provide all necessary documents will result in a delay to your application being processed.

Are you interested in this course, but find the current start date doesn't suit you? Register your interest by completing this short form to be among the first to know when the next course delivery dates are confirmed.

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