The following documents are in PDF and refer to the PLA.
- PLA Manual
- PLA Topic Approval Request
- Applied Fine Arts Petition for Academic Credit, Documentation Sheet
- Structured Learning Petition for Credit
- Self Directed Petition for Credit
Learning that occurs outside a college classroom, commonly referred to as experiential learning, is validated through a process known as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). Two things are essential for the PLA process:
- Accurate and precise documentation is provided to demonstrate the learning that has occurred.
- This documentation is evaluated and credit awarded upon approval of a qualified college faculty evaluator.
Three approaches to the validation of experiential learning at Bethel College are:
1. Written Documentation
Structured Learning
This is structured college-equivalent learning for which academic credit has not been awarded. It is comprised of continuing education courses, professional workshops, company sponsored seminars, apprenticeships, licensing preparation and other structured instructional experiences for which verification can be obtained and significant learning demonstrated. Credit is not given for attendance but only upon verification of college level learning which demonstrates a balance between theory and practice.
Self-Directed Learning
This learning may com from professional positions, volunteer work, civic responsibilities, travel and other significant life developments. Verification is accomplished through papers which are presented to appropriate faculty in related disciplines. A balance between theory and practice must also be demonstrated.
A one-hour course (Prior Learning Assessment) is a prerequisite for earning credits for both Structured and Self-Directed Learning.
2. Examinations
Externally Developed Examinations
College credit may be earned through CLEP, DANTES, ACT-PTP, REGENTS and Advanced Placement test.
Internally Developed Examinations
College credit may be earned through specially prepared course examinations arranged by a bethel College faculty member.
3. Recognition of Noncollegiate sponsored instructions
College credit is awarded based on recommendations by the American Council on Education (ACE), the National Program on Noncollegiate Sponsored Instruction (PONSI) and the Guide to the Evaluations of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services.
