You want a degree, and you already have college level learning acquired from life experiences. Some people express themselves better in written form, than they do on multiple-choice tests. If this sounds like you, consider earning the credits you deserve by putting together a written academic portfolio.
The portfolio assessment of prior learning is based on the documentation presented. After meeting with the assigned faculty evaluator and agreeing to the portfolio assessment method, expectations, and timeline, you will submit your portfolio materials for assessment.
Minimum requirements for the content of a portfolio:
- Cover page: Include your name, SCC student I.D. number, address, phone number, and e-mail address.
- Table of contents: Include an itemized list of documents and corresponding page numbers.
- Executive summary: A summary to justify your request and reference your documentation. The summary succinctly links your experiences and learning to the course outcomes.
- Chronological autobiography: Prepare an essay that summarizes the significant prior learning in your life, and defines your educational and career goals.
- Current resume: Include education, work and volunteer experiences. Detail significant activities, exact dates, accomplishments in the workplace, and other non-work related learning.
- Course competencies matrix: Organize, categorize and tie your prior learning experiences directly to the course and the specific course competencies for which credit is being requested. For each course competency identify the documentation you provided and briefly summarize how your prior learning demonstrates achievement of each competency.
- Learning narrative: Develop an essay to summarize your prior learning based on the course description and competencies. This narrative is a detailed explanation of how your knowledge applies to the course competencies.
- Documentation: Provide verification (evidence) for each learning experience and competency specific to the course.
- Appendices: Documentation of additional materials such as references used in citation.
- CPL Evaluation Response form(s): Include one form for each course. The portfolio is reviewed by a faculty evaluator who determines whether there is sufficient explanation and documentation to assess learning and award credit.
