Prior learning assessment and recognition

In Canada, Prior Learning Assessment and Recogntion (PLAR) is the process of identifying, assessing and recognizing skills, knowledge, or competencies that have been acquired through work experience, unrecognized training, independent study, volunteer activities, and hobbies. The term does not refer to a commercial program or agency, but to any type of activity with informal educational potential, usually for adult learners. Various institutions in several countries have set up PLAR programs, though the terminology varies somewhat from country to country. In Canada, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council has set up a website to act as [a clearinghouse of information about PLAR ]connected to educational institutions throughout that country. In most of these, PLAR may be applied toward academic credit, toward requirement of a training program, or for occupational certification.