White Paper
Advancing Graduate Education Through Credit for Prior Learning: A Framework for Equity, Access, and Academic Success
Abstract
This white paper delves into the framework provided by CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning), which outlines 10 standards for assessing learning and granting credit based on demonstrated relevant prior learning or learning from work experience. The standards highlight the importance of assessment as integral to the learning process, fostering equity and access while providing guidance and support to learners (Ten Standards for Assessing Learning, 2024). Despite the prevalence of workplace experience among graduate students, the adoption of graduate-level credit for prior learning remains relatively uncommon in academia. Drawing upon various sources, including academic research and institutional practices, this paper underscores the benefits of assessing graduate level learning to grant credit for prior learning in accelerating time to graduation, enhancing student motivation, and improving graduation rates. Furthermore, it examines the strategies utilized by universities including University of Phoenix, to implement these programs at the graduate level, emphasizing the need for comprehensive assessment methodologies and faculty support. The conclusion stresses the importance of strategic expansion of credit for prior learning offerings at the graduate level to increase accessibility to higher education and alleviate financial burdens for diverse student populations.
Authors
Ryan Williams has been with University of Phoenix since 2009 and has worked in multiple departments, but a majority of his time spent here has been in Operations. As a Senior Manager of Operations, Williams works on multiple projects such as working on Prior Learning Assessment workstreams, covering topics on policy for the College of Business and Information Technology, and staff communication as well as managing a team that oversees all content in the College courses. He is a member in the local Arizona chapters of Epsilon Pi Tau and Eta Theta, where he also serves as treasurer. Williams holds a master's degrees in information systems and a master’s degree in management, both from University of Phoenix.
Natalie Pratt has served University of Phoenix since 2014, first in curriculum and design as faculty, and most recently, as the Associate Dean of Business Programs in the College of Business and Information Technology. In her current role, Pratt supports the college in curriculum design and development, faculty support, vendor relationships and academic operations. She is a member of Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA) and SHRM, and has more than 16 years of experience in education, currently holding a secondary education teaching certificate for the State of Arizona. Pratt has a Master of Education in Cultural Studies degree from Ohio University, a Master of Counseling degree from Arizona State University and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Ohio University. She completed her MBA at University of Phoenix