Industry-Based Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) in Manitoba

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a process which captures and recognizes an individual's learning in the workplace, in the classroom and in the community. PLAR can describe competencies and help to measure performance while documenting the skills and knowledge needed for a job.

Benefits of Using PLAR

PLAR can save time and money by recognizing existing skills and shortening training.

PLAR can assist employees to:

• demonstrate what they know and are able to do
• clarify employment goals
• gain academic credits, occupational certification or promotion within the workplace

PLAR can assist employers to:

• understand employees' skills, knowledge and training needs
• recruit, develop and retain a workforce
• clarify learning goals and outcomes
• define, document and verify processes

PLAR can assist regulatory bodies to:

• identify competencies
• benchmark competencies against established standards
• create competency-based assessment

PLAR - What is Available to Industry?

The Workplace Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition Committee (WPLAR) was established by the Industry Workforce Development Branch within Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade.

WPLAR is an industry-labour-government partnership which:

• promotes PLAR in the workplace
• undertakes research
• funds projects for development and implementation
• guides PLAR practitioner standards and development

Through WPLAR, expertise and cost-shared assistance is potentially available to support the implementation of PLAR activities in business, labour and related organizations.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition through Apprenticeship

Employers who employ experienced tradespeople can encourage these people to become certified based on their work experience. Criteria for certification in a designated apprenticeship trade includes a predetermined number of years working in the trade and proven hands-on experience. Individuals can also apply for assessment of work experience, level placement testing and review or validation of other jurisdictional credentials.