Q&A With CAEL: James Martin

Perspectives on 50 Years of Impact

As CAEL marks its semicentennial, a big part of the celebrations is around its 5,000-strong membership. It is the daily work of this thriving community of practice that has made so much of the past five decades possible. To highlight some of the diverse individuals who create our collective success, CAEL invited CAEL Ambassadors to answer questions about the past, present, and future of CAEL’s mission and its impact on education-employment pathways.

What is your name, title, and organization?

James Martin, manager, recognition of prior learning, Dalhousie University

In its 50-year history, what would you say is CAEL's biggest accomplishment?

CAEL has achieved numerous milestones over its 50-year journey, from what I see as a relatively new member. But if I were to pinpoint its most significant accomplishment that I see among the CAEL community having attended my first conference, I'd highlight its pivotal role in reshaping educational paradigms and championing the cause of adult learners. CAEL's commitment to promoting lifelong learning and advocating for the recognition of prior learning experiences has revolutionized how we perceive education. It is in my opinion that CAEL has empowered many adult learners to pursue and complete their educational aspirations.  

During that history, what would you consider to be the biggest shift in higher education?

CAEL has played a significant role in advocating for adult learners and promoting experiential learning in higher education. I believe that one of the most notable shifts has been the recognition and integration of prior learning assessment (PLA) into academic programs. In the past, many traditional higher education institutions didn't formally recognize or credit this experiential learning. However, with the efforts of CAEL, there has been a notable shift towards valuing and incorporating prior learning into degree programs, in my opinion.

This shift has led to the development of more flexible pathways to earning college credit, such as portfolio assessments, standardized exams, and competency-based education models.

What would you consider to be the biggest shift in workforce development?

As I observe automation reshaping industries, I anticipate that future workforce development will prioritize adaptability and lifelong learning to keep up with the changing demands for skills and CAEL will be a strong player with this shift.

As CAEL begins its next half century, where do you see the greatest opportunity?

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, there's potential for CAEL to expand its reach globally and collaborate with international partners to address global workforce challenges. By leveraging its expertise and networks, CAEL can explore opportunities to scale its impact beyond national borders.

What else would you like to share about your experience with CAEL? Do you have a favorite memory or highlight from your member experience?

Attending the CAEL conference was an absolute highlight for me. The atmosphere was electric with passionate individuals all dedicated to adult learning and experiential education. The energy in the air was contagious. One of the most memorable aspects of the conference for me was the opportunity to meet like-minded people from diverse backgrounds and professions. From educators to employers, policymakers to researchers, everyone shared a common commitment to advancing adult learning and promoting experiential opportunities.

In his role of manager of recognition of prior learning at Dalhousie University, James Martin expands CPL collaboration both locally and internationally. He believes we are in a thrilling era in which people's intangible yet highly valuable educational experiences are finally being acknowledged globally in sectors that foster relationship-building and long-term opportunities. A seasoned professional in the realm of international and higher education, Martin holds a B.A. from Saint Mary's University, a certification in school leadership and management from Harvard Business School Online, and TESL certification. With extensive expertise in the language, international, K-12, and higher education sectors, Martin has concentrated on school startups, curriculum design, academic development, teacher training, and recruitment management, leading faculty and staff in the development of innovative and enduring experiential learning opportunities.