Assessment and facilitation in accreditation: experiental learning in undergraduate work based learning programme.

This action research project explored the process of accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL) within the Work Based Learning Programme at Middlesex University. Four action research cycles were completed, in which data was generated from one cycle to inform the next. The first cycle evaluated the APEL module from the undergraduate student’s perspective, while the second gathered the tacit knowledge of assessment, facilitation and accreditation from the perspective of the academic advisers. Using the findings from these cycles, criteria to assess the credit volume in APEL were devised and trialled with colleagues, and then integrated into the teaching and learning materials for the module. Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered from student questionnaires, interviews with academics and documents such as examples of student work.
The students’ experiences of APEL supported previous anecdotes and findings from the literature, demonstrating largely positive experiences such as increased self-confidence and a beneficial impact upon their work and personal lives, with increased ability for reflective learning. Issues relating to difficulty with academic language and differing expectations regarding the outcome of credit awarded for APEL claims emerged as areas for development, and some changes to programme information were made. The interviews with academics captured extensive tacit knowledge, experience and facilitation practices and contributed to the development of learning and teaching materials to support APEL at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Guidance for academics and students to facilitate the development of APEL claims was written and incorporated into student resources and information packs for the Centre for Excellence in Work Based Learning. The project will inform the future use and application of APEL in both traditional and work based learning programmes.

Partial fulfilment for the degree of Doctor of professional studies.
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