The development of the model for recognition of prior learning for nurses in South Africa. Implementation of the RPL...

The purpose of the study that this article is based on, was to develop and test an appropriate model for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for nurses. To test the model it was implemented in a form of pilot projects by three Nursing Education Institutions. The study adopted a multi phase decision oriented evaluation research design. Stuffelbeam's Context, Input, Process and Product evaluation model was used as a theoretical framework to guide the research process, This article presents the second phase of the RPL development project. The first objective of this phase namely the extent to which the RPL guidelines were followed is discussed. The second objective, identification of any barriers to RPL implementation is also discussed under problems experienced by both RPL advisors and candidates. Recommendations are made based on the barriers.