The MPLAN PEARL Award is given for the Pursuit of Excellence in the Assessment and Recognition of prior Learning.
Red River College: Disability and Community Support (DCS) Program
The DCS field is full of skilled support workers with years of experience and no formal training. Until 2008 RPL processes were implemented on a course by course basis and in a limited capacity. In 2008 the DCS program began to utilize a “course cluster approach” versus a course by course approach for RPL in order to meet the needs of skilled support workers across Manitoba; to make access to college training that is more streamlined for both the learner and the faculty assessors, yet still maintained quality RPL practices for assessing learning from experience. The DCS department worked closely with Manitoba Department of Family Services and Consumer Affairs to set up funding opportunities for support workers to access funds to complete RPL processes as well as for courses to fill their learning gaps. Delivery is on-line/ distance through Continuing Education and through the DCS Workplace Program.
Many benefits of the RPL course cluster approach included the subsequent enthusiasm of the adult learners who are eager to move on to other cluster after 100% success rate with the first group; the faculty benefitted from the streamlined approach and the newly developed resources, the program benefitted from new curriculum development of on-line courses and other college courses benefitted from the approach, most recently the Health Care Aide Program.
Debbie O’Donnell, Coordinator for the DCS Program received the award.
Manitoba Aerospace Human Resources Coordinating Committee: CIM to BBA
The nominee is the Manitoba Aerospace Human Resources Coordinating Committee and its Executive Director, Wendell Wiebe. The MAHRCC is an industry-driven, government-supported initiative aimed at developing a world-class workforce to meet industry’s needs through partnerships with Manitoba educational institutions, Manitoba Aerospace and other key stakeholders. The program is the University of Winnipeg’s Certificate in Management to the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. The original industries involved are Boeing Canada Technology, Manitoba Hydro, and Standard Aero Limited. Participant from these industries who were studying in CIM were given advanced credit towards the BBA when they met certain criteria and eighteen members of the first cohort completed this degree. The program, announced by the U. of Wpg in 2005 allowed key succession planning prospects and middle managers with new opportunities for education and advancement. A second cohort started In January 2010 and is now expanded and open to employees of the Aerospace Sector, Manitoba Hydro, Manitoba Liquor Control Commission, and Manitoba Lotteries Commission and selected other employers. Candidates have completed the CIM, HRM program or equivalent programs, have 3 years of management and professional development experience and have the committed support of their current employer.
Michael Bennaroch, Dean of Business and Economics at University of Winnipeg received the award.