1 Increasing the confidence of advanced RPL assessors

It is important that VET assessors have the confidence and capabilities to use their professional judgement in providing recognition of prior learning (RPL), to move beyond concerns with compliance and draw on their creativity. “Compliance to Creativity ” was a work-based action learning project conducted from April-September 2008 for a group of 14 leading assessors in Queensland. It was designed to assist experienced assessors to build professional judgement as part of their own practice and that of their colleagues, particularly in relation to RPL. The overall finding from that program is that it is possible for leading VET assessors – through a structured capability building program – to significantly increase their confidence and enhance their capabilities with regard to the conduct of RPL, as well as help their colleagues to increase their confidence and capabilities with regard to RPL. The research also provided insights into RPL practice and skills, mentoring and professional judgment