Why do we need PLAR?

PLAR helps to formally recognize that valuable learning occurs throughout life, not only in formal classrooms. Individuals develop college-level knowledge and skills through employment, community leadership, volunteering, caregiving, culture, military service, independent study, and lived experience, yet this learning often goes unrecognized within post-secondary education systems. Ontario has recognized PLAR as a strategy to improve college access for diverse adult learners. PLAR provides a fair and rigorous process to assess and recognize learning and supports learner success by avoiding redundant coursework for learners who can already demonstrate the learning outcomes, reducing courseload per semester, potentially reducing cost required to earn credentials, and enhancing learner confidence and success.

Key Purposes of PLAR

• Provides a formal assessment process to demonstrate proficiencies required to achieve academic qualifications.
• Formally credits learning which demonstrates achievement of specific course learning outcomes while maintaining rigor.
• Increases access to important education opportunities for diverse learners.
• Promotes lifelong learning.

Benefits of PLAR

• Eliminates duplication of learning.
• Streamlines the learning process.
• Validates varied learning from outside the educational system to support equity and diversity in learning.