Prior Learning Assessment Student Handbook

Introduction

Atlanta Metropolitan State College is a member of the University System of Georgia’s Adult Learning Consortium and has pledged to offer students, particularly adult learners, the opportunity to receive course credit for prior learning. This opportunity will allow adult learners to complete their college education faster, as well as make their education more economically feasible.  Knowledge gained from various learning experiences may be equivalent to college-level skills and knowledge, and warrant academic credit. Please refer to Georgia Opportunities for Adult Learners (http://www.georgiaonmyline.org/adultlearner) website to access various collaborative programs, services, and outreach for additional opportunities for Georgia adults.

This document describes the various assessment methods that AMSC makes available to students to receive credit for prior learning, including CLEP, DANTES/DSST, AP, IB and College administered examinations.  In addition, the College also offers adult learners the opportunity to document their prior learning experiences for credit by submitting a portfolio. A special class, PLAD2000, provides specific instructions and support for assisting students in creating the Prior Learning portfolio.

The administration and faculty at AMSC believe that PLA aligns with the mission of the College:  “Atlanta Metropolitan State College, a unit of the University System of Georgia, focuses on excellence, where outstanding faculty members and committed staff teach and facilitate the successful academic matriculation and holistic development of students. The College offers an affordable liberal arts education and prepares students from a diverse urban community to function in a global society.”

To better meet its mission, AMSC will work with students from diverse backgrounds to evaluate their prior learning and determine if it meets the standards and requirements of college-level learning. In doing so, the College will make education cost effective and accessible, while reducing completion time.

The Council of Adult and Experiential Learning. The College follows the for experiential learning, adopted by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) and available in Assessing Learning: Standards, Principles and Procedures, 2nd Ed. By Fiddler, Morry, et al.