Recommended PLAR Websites
Industry Training Authority of BC (ITABC)
The ITABC is responsible for evaluating prior learning in the trades sector in British Columbia. Once they have evaluated your learning you can enroll in the correct level of training at UFV. It is an excellent source of information for all aspects of apprenticeship and trades careers.
An online community dedicated to prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR). This is a good site to help you learn about PLAR and PLAR services accross Canada. Choose the Learner box at the bottom of the screen to enter an area which allows you to see profiles of people like you who have gone through PLAR.
A web-based system for persons with trade skills which enable them to look at other trades where there skills can be applied. Skill charts (DACUMS) outline practical and knowledge skills required for each trade based on national standards. With over 79 trades and 7,000 skills identified this program provides a comprehensive trade information database that is useful for people wanting to know more about the trades and where there skills fit.
Recommended Print Resources
Colvin, Janet. Earn College Credit for What You Know. Chicago: Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company, 2006.
Informative question and answer format, which includes exercises for understanding and applying prior learning assessment and recognition principles. The book also includes profiles of successful adult students using prior learning assessment to complete their degrees and explanations of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) standards for quality prior learning assessment. Earn College Credit for What You Know is in stock at UFV’s library.
Durkin, M. T., et al. Adult Education 200: Sample Portfolios. University College of the Fraser Valley, Department of Adult Education, 1994.
A diverse collection of sample academic portfolios produced by students in Adult
Education (ADED) 200. While the portfolios have similar sections (table of contents, goals statements and autobiography etc.), the evidence and explanation of evidence in each portfolio is unique. ADED 200: Portfolio Samples is available through UFV’s library.
Recommended Portfolio Resources
Dr. Helen Barrett has been researching strategies and technologies for electronic portfolios since 1991. This website focuses on electronic portfolios but it is an excellent resource of samples and explanations about creating all types of portfolios.
Martin Kimeldorf is a teacher and an author. He has written several books and articles on the topics of work, leisure, journal writing, community service and portfolios. His website illustrates several types of portfolios including career and professional portfolios in addition to explaining how PLAR candidates can resolve challenges they may experience on their way to portfolio completion.
Teaching Portfolio for New Graduates and Long Term Teachers
This is an interesting and readable website that provides a good description of what to include in a teaching portfolio in addition to a timetable which can be used by people wanting to create a teaching portfolio. You have to scroll down about three quarters of a page to see the green and pink boxes related to portfolio development.
University of Wisconsin - Career Services Professional Portfolio Development
This is a brochure for students who are preparing a graduation portfolio for employment in their chosen field. Information is simply laid out and the last page includes pictures of sample portfolio sections.