The Recognition of Prior Learning in the Irish Educational System

Over the past number of years I have seen many developments in Lifelong Learning, some welcome and others perhaps not. There is little doubt however that the changes have been significant and have made an impact. This is particularly so in the area of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The adoption of the theory, and ultimately the implementation of policies and procedures, has occurred at different speeds across Europe. Despite the diverse levels of acceptance and application of the principles of RPL there can be no argument that it is now broadly accepted and practiced widely across the full continuum of learning from the vocational education and training level to further education, right through to higher and university level education. The purpose of this article is not the development of a comparative review, but rather to outline the development of the practice in the Irish educational system in the context of European developments.