JOB DESCRIPTION ASSESSMENT AND ARTICULATION SERVICES COORDINATOR (Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) and Articulation) INCUMBENT: GROUP: SSA CLASSIFICATION: Level 10 DIVISION: Student Services DEPARTMENT: Registrar’s Office DATE REVIEWED: June 2007 SUMMARY STATEMENT: The PLAR and Articulation Services Coordinator will consolidate, expand and implement testing and assessment products policy, practices and service in order to fulfill the College’s mandate for provision of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) services. The PLAR and Articulation Services Coordinator will assist in the development of RPL strategies, tools and protocols, conduct ongoing monitoring and evaluation of assessment activities, and work closely with relevant discipline experts to develop comprehensive PLAR initiatives. Functions include research, development and implementation of appropriate strategies for the purposes of entrance/admission testing for all programs requiring entry/selection and Communications placement testing; and coordination, administration, and management of RPL and PLAR. The Coordinator will also develop and review PLAR and standardized testing protocols, advise faculty and administration on best practice, and advise students regarding applications and process for obtaining via Recognition of Prior Learning processes. The PLAR and Articulation Services Coordinator is also responsible for coordinating transfer articulation with Red Deer College as a sending and receiving institution. The Coordinator will work with government, industry, community, training providers and other post secondary institutions relative to formal recognition, credentialing, accrediting, and articulation of experiential learning through PLAR processes. Other activities include ongoing professional development, research and provision of professional consultation services both within and outside the College to improve service offerings and enhance the profile of PLAR. RELATIONSHIPS: Reports to: Registrar/Director of Enrolment Services Subordinate Staff: None Other internal contacts: Program Chairs, Directors/Deans, Faculty, Students, Staff, External contacts: Government, business and industry, Alberta Learning, Alberta Advanced Education, Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer, other post-secondary institutions, professional associations, community groups, training and credentialing agencies. RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES: 1. Project Management: a. Coordinate multiple RPL and testing tasks and activities for internal and external clients. b. Liaise and consult with faculty and students on development of new RPL protocols and strategies. c. Identify and track deadlines for multiple projects and meet externally mandated deadlines. d. Use creative problem solving approaches in the initiation and development of RPL activities and projects. 2. Consult: a. Managers, Chairs, Deans, Registrar, Directors regarding testing and RPL policy, practice, articulation, tools, instruments, resource needs and make appropriate recommendations. b. Faculty to determine programs and course assessment needs and appropriate testing instruments. c. Students regarding procedure and process in applications for course credit based on credentialed and experiential learning through PLAR. d. Liaise with government, industry and other post-secondary institutions with regard to assessment and transfer articulation issues. e. Registrar’s Office staff regarding RPL and PLAR issues, program entrance requirements and credit awards. f. Ongoing consultation with IT Services regarding Transfer Articulation module in Banner, data entry, upgrades, tracking and reports. 3. Research: a. Ongoing and new activities for RPL, Transfer and Articulation, and PLAR. b. Efficacy of interventions and testing related to RPL and PLAR. c. Current assessment and testing protocols, products and activities for RPL. d. Academic outcomes related to current assessment practice, review and implementation of appropriate remediation. 4. Leadership: a. Market College RPL and PLAR services and develop new strategies to enhance profile and awareness of these services. b. Relationship-building and networking within the College and the community to assess RPL needs, provide information, offer assistance and promote partnerships. c. Provide expertise to the community and College partners about assessment instruments, protocols and practices. d. Develop, support and encourage program laddering opportunities for current and prospective students. REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS: Education • Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree; Masters Degree preferred Experience • Knowledge and experience related to Prior Learning Assessment and Transfer Articulation • Ability to locate, evaluate and present information and recommendations about RPL, PLAR, assessment, and transfer articulation • Experience working with adults and students • Knowledge of educational theory/philosophy in adult education PERFORMANCE COMPETENCIES AND CRITERIA: Performance criteria shall include achievement of tasks set out in the position description, annual major objectives, and the completion of special assignments including: Core Competencies: • Building Rapport • Client/Customer awareness • Interpersonal skills • Listening skills • Organizing/Planning ability • Personal Work Ethic In addition to the Core Competencies identified as being required by all RDC staff, the following competencies are also integral to the position: Position Competencies: • Effective communication with students, clients, staff and supervisors • Problem-solving ability and creative project management. • Comprehensive communication and liaison with Registrar, Chairpersons, Deans and other College administrators • Improved products and services for RPL, PLAR and Transfer Articulation for both internal and external clients • Advancement and enhancement of RPL/PLAR services within the college and in the community • Ability to provide and ensure secure and confidential RPL services • Adherence to College policies and procedures • Research skills and experience in data collection/analysis/evaluation report writing • The incumbent must have the ability to work with a variety of clients such as administrators, faculty, staff, students and other contacts in individual and group interactions. Supervisor: Date: Incumbent: Date: