Academic credentials are often automatically included in job requirements because they are seen as minimum standards for skills and knowledge.
But current practice in Europe is placing increasing emphasis on recognizing learning in the workplace because that is where the rubber hits the road in terms of effectiveness.
John Konrad has been tracking these issues for several years as a vocational instructor and an internationally recognized researcher.
A labour shortage of health care professionals to provide quality Psychiatric/Mental Health services in the NOR-MAN Health Region has driven the need for innovative recruitment research. The primary focus has been the exploration of the potential to establish and deliver an Advanced Practice Licensed Practical Nurse credential in Psychiatry/Mental Health as part of a broad recruitment and retention strategy. To this end, research was conducted to ascertain if Licensed Practical Nurses have the foundation to develop the specialized skills required to practice in this extended area of practice, as well as to identify gaps and explore solutions and pathways of delivery to address these gaps. The practices of Prior Learning and Recognition and career laddering are considered throughout the process. Attention is also drawn to the need to develop meaningful education and employment opportunities in the North through a collaborative approach, thereby fostering the growth and optimal utilization of our invaluable human resources.
