In November 2000, the Manitoba Government approved funding for a prior learning assessment project designed by an accrediting body (Certified Technicians and Technologists Association of Manitoba), industry partners (Manitoba Hydro and Bristol Aerospace) and a community-based educational centre (Centre for Education and Work). The project, developed over a period of a year and a half, was focussed on an identifiable demand for certification in designated technician and technology discipline areas through CTTAM by industry on behalf of individuals who had received their education through an unaccredited technician or technologist program, who had offshore credentials for which equivalencies had not been established; or who had obtained their learning through the workplace.

The accrediting body, CTTAM, has provided a coordinating role, ensuring that existing certification standards remained constant throughout the development of project learning outcomes and assessment criteria. CTTAM also ensured that its membership remained informed of the project and its expected outcomes. CTTAM membership participation came through the Reference Review Committee, a committee of subject matter experts with representatives from the CTTAM Panel of Examiners.

Industry partnership has been a key to the success of this project. Both Manitoba Hydro and Bristol Aerospace have contributed significantly to the project by identifying the discipline areas for project development; through the participation of subject matter experts to develop outcomes, assessment criteria, and conduct assessments; as well as through direct financial support and in-kind contributions.

The Centre for Education and Work (CEW) has provided project management services and educational expertise in the development of the prior learning assessment system. Most particularly, the CEW is responsible for ensuring that the system is rigorous, fair, and accurate. CEW staff, working together with CTTAM and industry subject matter experts, have developed the prior learning assessment system, ensuring that the certification standards are upheld and applied in the assessment process.

Project Related Links
Manitoba Government
CTTAM
Manitoba Hydro