HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 2933
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As Reported by House Committee On:
Higher Education
Title: An act relating to assessment of prior learning at institutions of higher education.
Brief Description: Creating a work group to assess prior learning at institutions of higher education.
Sponsors: Representatives Wallace, Kenney, Anderson, Darneille, Roberts, Kelley, Hankins, Hasegawa and Chase.
Brief History:
Higher Education: 1/21/08, 1/24/08 [DP].
Brief Summary of Bill |
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HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION
Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 10 members: Representatives Wallace, Chair; Sells, Vice Chair; Anderson, Ranking Minority Member; Hankins, Hasegawa, Jarrett, McIntire, Roberts, Schmick and Sommers.
Staff: Andi Smith (786-7304).
Background:
A prior learning assessment (PLA) is defined as an assessment by some valid and reliable
means, by a qualified specialist, of what has been learned through non-formal education,
training or experience that is worthy of credit in a course or program offered by an institution
providing credit.
Institutional policies vary regarding the assessment and acceptance of prior learning.
According to a 2006 study by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning, awarding
credit for successful completion of exams like Advanced Placement (AP), College-level
Examination Program (CLEP), Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support
(DANTES) is the most common practice for awarding credit for prior learning.
The same 2006 study indicated that "portfolio" assessments are growing in acceptance. To
complete this assessment, a student assembles a physical packet of information that validates
his or her prior learning experiences. The packet typically includes an autobiography of
learning with appropriate documentation, letters of reference, degree plan and educational
goals, etc. The student submits that plan to the appropriate faculty who reviews the materials
and makes a determination of credit.
In Washington, there is variation among institutions regarding prior learning assessment
policy and practice:
The NWCCU states in its accreditation rules that no more than 25 percent of a degree can come from PLA. If the public two and four-year colleges were to adopt this guideline, it would represent an increase from the current 15 credit maximum to 45 credits at the baccalaureate level, and community and technical colleges would move from 15 credits to 21 credits.
Summary of Bill:
The Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) convenes a workgroup to examine
current institutional policies and practices for awarding credit for prior learning. The group
must make recommendations on the applicability of prior learning credits toward general
education requirements and the proportion of academic and workforce degrees that can be
comprised of prior learning credit. The workgroup is directed to consider guidelines from the
CAEL and the NWCCU in their analysis.
The HECB must report to the appropriate committees of the Legislature by December 1,
2008.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) This bill helps to move more students through the higher education system by
allowing them to earn credit for their past work experience. This bill creates a work group to
decide how best to do that.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: Representative Wallace, prime sponsor.