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Abstract

The Problem

As service men and women transition to the civilian workforce because of a major drawdown of combat forces, many will face challenges with education requirements necessary to gain employment they desire in the civilian sector.

The Solution

Consequently, colleges and universities are adapting to this group of adult learners with convenient, flexible, and structured pathways to greater levels of educational attainment. One method of assisting military-connected students and student veterans is acknowledgment of credit for prior learning in the military. Portfolio development for prior learning assessment (PLA) has become a practice for adult learners in many institutions.

The Stakeholders

This article provides a review of the literature on PLA and discusses how it may address a multitude of challenges faced by transitioning military members who wish to consider formal education as an avenue to move forward in their careers and lives.

Keywords

military learners prior learning assessment adult learners persistence

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