CAEL Plays Key Role in First-ever Statewide Policy Guidance for CPL

Indiana has launched its first-ever statewide policy guidance for credit for prior learning. Developed in partnership with CAEL, the policy guidance sets forth a CPL value statement and supports consistency in critical facets of CPL, including program and service design, transcriptions and transferability, standards for assessing CPL, and community, workforce, and employer partnerships. 

CAEL also supported the formation of working groups comprised of postsecondary, workforce development, and community partners, which the Indiana Commission for Higher Education enlisted to implement the policy guidance. Partner resources available to practitioners include two CAEL-led training webinars. The working groups are also supporting data collection guidelines and a new CPL Clearinghouse concept. 

Citing CAEL research showing that CPL boosts completion while saving students time and money, the commission is highlighting CPL as an opportunity for adults to advance their education and training beyond high school. More than 2 million adults in Indiana have not completed a postsecondary credential.

“By honoring the acquired skills and previous experiences of adult learners, CPL supports educational attainment, talent attraction and retention, and the broadening of Indiana’s higher education ecosystem,” said Chris Lowery, Indiana commissioner for higher education.

“Students who earn CPL are much more likely to graduate and take an average of 17.6 more course credits at the institution,” said Dr. Beth Doyle, senior vice president of initiatives & solutions at CAEL. “It is a win for students and institutions. CAEL was so pleased to be a part of the vital work the Indiana Commission on Higher Education is doing to make this available to students across the state. We applaud the institutions in Indiana, and there are many, who lead in making Credit for Prior Learning accessible to their students."

Details about the many benefits of CPL and other CPL resources are available at cael.org.