THE RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION

This research investigates how Recognition of PriorLearning (RPL) in higher education promotes socialtransformation. Through analysing a specific RPLprogramme some conclusions on this matter weredrawn. This research a qualitative study analysesofficial documents institutional reports learningportfolios - produced by RPL candidates wherein theynarrated their autobiographical learning histories.This research highlights the fact that RPL at theUniversity of the Western Cape took place within aparticular historical and social context. Firstlythe location of RPL within the discourse of lifelonglearning contributed to its transformative potentialsince; inherent in lifelong learning is the promiseof social inclusion which incorporates the need tobroaden access to learning opportunities. SecondlyUWC experienced a rapid decline in its studentnumbers between 1996 and 1998 which threatened thesurvival of the institution. Finally the SouthAfrican national education legislative and regulatoryenvironment supported and encouraged theimplementation of RPL at institutions of higherlearning to contribute to social redress and socialequity