Effectiveness of Prior Learning Recognition (RPL) Program Management in Improving Student Competence

Authors

  • Neneng Sulastri Nusantara Islamic University, Bandung, Indonesia
  • Rahul Khan Govt. Industrial Training Institute Ferozepur jhirka, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58818/ijems.v5i2.313

Keywords:

Prior Learning Recognition (RPL), Program Management, Student Competence, Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, Educational Effectiveness

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of Prior Learning Recognition (RPL) program management in improving student competence within the context of higher education. RPL is an innovative approach that acknowledges learners’ prior knowledge, skills, and experiences obtained through formal, non-formal, and informal learning. This research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical design, utilizing data collected through literature review and document analysis. The findings indicate that effective RPL program management significantly contributes to enhancing student competence by accelerating learning pathways, increasing learning motivation, and ensuring the relevance of education to labor market needs. Key factors influencing the success of RPL implementation include institutional commitment, clear assessment standards, qualified assessors, and adequate administrative systems. However, challenges remain, such as limited awareness, inconsistent implementation, and lack of standardized procedures across institutions. Therefore, strengthening management strategies, improving regulatory frameworks, and enhancing institutional capacity are essential to optimize the effectiveness of RPL programs in improving student competence and supporting lifelong learning.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Author Biographies

Neneng Sulastri, Nusantara Islamic University, Bandung, Indonesia

We fully hope that our manuscript can be published in the IJEMs journal.

Rahul Khan, Govt. Industrial Training Institute Ferozepur jhirka, India

We fully hope that this collaborative manuscript can be published in the ijems journal.

References

Raciti, M., Tham, A., & Dale, J. (2024). Recognition of prior learning in higher education: A systematic literature review. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice, 21(9). https://doi.org/10.53761/bys3aj56

de Paor, C. (2024). The recognition of prior learning (RPL) as pedagogical practice: Tensions and affordances in assessment. Studies in Continuing Education, 46(3), 382–395. https://doi.org/10.1080/0158037X.2023.2224236

Mottais, É., Dorceus, S., & Bélisle, R. (2024). Temporal dimension in recognition of prior learning (RPL) in vocational education and training from a social justice perspective. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(5), 494–508. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2353165

Baumeler, C., Engelage, S., Hämmerli, C., & Salzmann, P. (2023). Recognition of prior learning in professional education from an organisational perspective. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(2), 208–221. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2177759

Ma’ruf, M. F., Said, A., Mindarti, L. I., Putra, F., & Esmael, S. T. E. (2024). Analysis evaluation of intergovernmental cooperation in recognition of prior learning (RPL) program in Indonesia. JPSI (Journal of Public Sector Innovations, 9(1), 34–48).

Pokorny, H. (2023). Recognition of prior learning: Policy and practice in higher education. Higher Education Research & Development, 42(4), 765–780.

Cooper, L., & Harris, J. (2023). Recognition of prior learning: Exploring tensions between assessment, equity, and access. Studies in Continuing Education, 45(2), 210–225.

Andersson, P., & Fejes, A. (2023). Recognition of prior learning: Research, practice and policy. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(1), 1–15.

Wheelahan, L., Moodie, G., & Buchanan, J. (2023). Skills recognition and workforce development: The role of RPL. Journal of Education and Work, 36(3), 250–265.

Harris, J. (2023). RPL and the recognition of experiential learning in higher education. Adult Education Quarterly, 73(2), 150–167.

European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP). (2023). Recognition of prior learning: European guidelines. CEDEFOP.

UNESCO. (2023). Recognition, validation and accreditation of prior learning: Global perspectives. UNESCO Publishing.

International Labour Organization. (2023). Skills recognition and lifelong learning systems. ILO.

OECD. (2023). Advancing lifelong learning through recognition of prior learning. OECD Publishing.

Zhang, Y., & Zheng, J. (2023). Recognition of prior learning and its impact on student competence development. Education Sciences, 13(5), 455–470.

Browning, K. (2020). A case study on the recognition of prior learning (RPL): Perceptions of university faculty. Canadian Journal for the Study of Adult Education, 32(1). https://doi.org/10.56105/cjsae.v32i1.5499

Andersson, P., & Fejes, A. (2020). Recognition of prior learning: Research, practice and policy. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 39(1), 1–7.

Cooper, L., & Harris, J. (2020). Recognition of prior learning: Exploring tensions between assessment, equity and access. Studies in Continuing Education, 42(2), 123–138.

Wheelahan, L., Moodie, G., & Buchanan, J. (2020). Skills recognition and workforce development: The role of RPL. Journal of Education and Work, 33(5–6), 378–390.

Harris, J. (2020). RPL and the recognition of experiential learning in higher education. Adult Education Quarterly, 70(4), 312–329.

UNESCO. (2020). Recognition, validation and accreditation of prior learning: Global perspectives. UNESCO Publishing.

OECD. (2020). Making lifelong learning a reality through recognition of prior learning. OECD Publishing.

International Labour Organization. (2020). Skills and lifelong learning systems: Recognition of prior learning. ILO.

Conrad, D. (2022). Accreditation and recognition of prior learning in higher education. In Handbook of Open, Distance and Digital Education (pp. 1–17). Springer.

Assinger, P. (2022). Recognition of prior learning in workplaces: Exploring managerial practice. Studies in Continuing Education, 45(3), 378–395. https://doi.org/10.1080/0158037X.2022.2109615

Pokorny, H. (2021). Recognition of prior learning in higher education: Institutional practices and challenges. Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education, 46(7), 1020–1034.

Cedefop. (2021). European guidelines for validating non-formal and informal learning. European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training.

Singh, M. (2021). Global perspectives on recognition of prior learning and adult education. International Review of Education, 67(1–2), 1–20.

Guo, S., & Andersson, P. (2021). The role of RPL in lifelong learning and social inclusion. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 40(5–6), 451–465.

Keevy, J., & Chakroun, B. (2022). Level-setting and recognition of learning outcomes: Implications for RPL systems. Journal of Education Policy, 37(4), 567–583.

Downloads

Published

2026-04-30

How to Cite

Sulastri, N., & Khan, R. (2026). Effectiveness of Prior Learning Recognition (RPL) Program Management in Improving Student Competence. The International Journal of Education Management and Sociology, 5(2), 74–82. https://doi.org/10.58818/ijems.v5i2.313