1. How does PLAR work?

In a PLAR process, you will work with advisors and assessors to:

• set expectations of what PLAR can do and how prior learning will be proven
• gather information on past experiences and accomplishments
• assess what you have learned and how it can be translated to skills and knowledge
• prove your learning through a variety of means including practical demonstrations, interviews, portfolio development and formal testing.
• and apply the recognition of the skills and knowledge to employment and future education take process from advisory services brochure.

2. How can PLAR help me?

PLAR can save individuals, employers and educators time and money.

PLAR can assist individuals to:

• identify personal strengths and goals
• prove knowledge and abilities for employment
• gain academic credit
• attain occupational licensing or certification

PLAR can assist employers to:

• develop a clear understanding of employees skills
• identify training gaps
• shorten training time
• recruit a work force

PLAR can assist educational institutions to:

• increase student retention and recruitment
• allow for more appropriate learner placement in programs
• increase the range of assessment tools for learners

3. Is PLAR for You?

1. Have you had a variety of learning experiences in your life?
2. Have you been involved in volunteer activities which make use of specific skills?
3. Do you have five or more years of experience in one field?
4. Do you keep up to date in your field by reading, attending conferences or taking workshops?
5. Do you take on new roles and responsibilities at work or in your community?

If you answered yes to several of these questions, PLAR may be for you.

4. How much does PLAR cost?

Advisors at Adult Learning and Employment Centres provide PLAR services related to career planning and employment for free.

Post-secondary institutions will charge a varying fee to assess prior learning and potentially apply it for credits towards education and training programs.

5. How long will PLAR take?

PLAR does take time. During the process you will identify and gather information on past experiences and accomplishments. That learning will then need to be assessed, proven and recognized. Your advisor will be able to help you understand the time commitment based on why you are doing PLAR.

6. What's Happening in Manitoba?

The PLAR partners are committed to providing PLAR opportunities for Manitobans.

• PLAR services are provided at colleges and universities
• PLAR services are available at adult learning and employment centres across the province
• PLAR can be used to gain credits for a Mature High School Diploma
• PLAR can be used to gain credit for post-secondary education
• Apprenticeship is working towards using PLAR to shorten certification time
• Industry partners are using PLAR to shorten training and certification, and for hiring and internal promotion

7. Where can I get more information?

Talk to your local adult learning centre, employment centre, community college or university. Check the Contacts button on the home page of this site.

Industry and businesses interested in applying PLAR in the workplace can contact Workplace Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition Committee at www.wplar.ca.