How to prepare an RPL application
RPL applications should include a request in writing, along with a Prior Learning Portfolio that allows the student to demonstrate how their study, work, training, and life experience meet all of the learning outcomes of the specific AUT units for which they are applying for RPL.
What is Included in a Prior Learning Portfolio
AUT staff need to assess that a student meets each of the learning outcomes for each specific unit that a student is seeking RPL for. This is demonstrated through the student submitting a claim against each Unit Learning Outcome (ULO), demonstrating how they meet the ULO. If the study and/or experience occurred some time ago, students need to demonstrate how they have maintained their currency of knowledge, up to this date.
All claims are to be supported with evidence, such as:
- CV
- role descriptions
- corroborating letter or references from pastor/employer
- examples of work
- evidence of employment in a particular role
- evidence of qualifications
- evidence of other training or professional development
- etc...
The best way to display this content is to have a document with a table layout, with the ULOs for a specific unit outlined in full, and then in the corresponding column, student making a claim as to how they meet the ULO, and referencing additional specific evidence documents, that they will include with their application.
The following is a deidentified, generic example of a prior learning portfolio submitted by a past student. The attachments referenced are not included here.
Exemplar: RPL - Prior Learning Portfolio:
PC094-812 Practical Ministry Field Education
Learning Outcome – Content | Evidence of Prior Learning |
Learning Outcomes |
|
A. know and understand
| Through involvement in various projects with [my employer], I have obtained thorough knowledge of the practical issues relating to ministry settings. Please refer to the following attached documents:- 6. Subculture report.pdf 7. Final report.pdf |
B. be able to
| I have reflected on my practice in [employment context], including evangelistic ministry settings, reflecting on the practical issues for the participants. I worked under supervision of [relevant supervisor] in observing the [ministry work]. Refer to:- 21. Reflective report on [ministry].pdf 28. Final report on the [ministry] outreach.pdf |
C. be in a position to
| I am able to consider the issues of the participants of practical ministry, the challenges and the opportunities it presents, and through reflective practice can apply these perspectives to my ministry contexts. Please refer:- 5. Reflection on theological principles and priorities.pdf 21. Reflective report on [ministry].pdf |
Bibliography:
Please see the resources referenced at the end of the reports:-
5. Reflection on theological principles and priorities.pdf
6. Subculture report.pdf
7. final report.pdf
21. Reflective report on [ministry].pdf
Attachments:
- Ministry Curriculum Vitae – 3. brochure.pdf
- Role Descriptions – 30. Volunteer information.docx, 4. Mentor guide section 1.pdf
- Certificates – 12. Training.pdf, 13.Clearance.pdf, 16. [redacted] Police clearance.pdf, 18. Certificate.pdf
- References / Letters of Support – 20. Supervisor reference.pdf, 1. Statement from nominating committee.pdf, 2. Third party report.pdf, 24-27. [Ministry] outreach eval form.pdf, 8. [redacted] ref for Torch.pdf
- Samples of material developed or delivered – 9. [redacted] 2017 talk.pdf, 10. [redacted] talk.pdf, 17. Write up for [ministry].pdf