Widyatama University is holding an implementation of an information system for assessors who will carry out Type A Recognition of Past Learning (RPL) assessments at Widyatama University,

Widyatama University provides a Recognition of Past Learning (RPL) program that is available to various groups of individuals, who may benefit from formal recognition of the learning and skills they have acquired outside of a formal educational environment.

The activity, which was held on Friday 15 September 2023, aims to increase understanding of information about Recognition of Past Learning (RPL).

According to the Deputy Chancellor for the Tridharma of Higher Education & Student Affairs, Dr. R. Wedi Rusmawan Kusumah, S.E., M.Sc., Ak., CA. explained that this activity was a socialization of the RPL program.

“Recognition of Past Learning (RPL) is a process of recognizing the knowledge, skills and competencies that a person has acquired through formal, non-formal and informal learning throughout his life. Implementation of information systems in this process allows assessment, verification and validation of past learning to be carried out more efficiently, accurately and transparently. “Socialization of the implementation of the information system for assessors who will carry out RPL is very important,” explained the Deputy Chancellor for the Tridharma of Higher Education & Student Affairs, Dr. R. Wedi Rusmawan Kusumah, S.E., M.Si., Ak., CA., Friday 15 September 2023 during socialization activities at HARRIS Hotel & Convention Jl. Ciumbuleuit No. 50 – 58 Hegarmanah, Bandung.

He added that understanding Features and Functionality: Assessors need to know how the system works, what features are available, and how to use them to support the RPL assessment process.

“This activity increases Process Efficiency: By understanding how the system works, assessors can carry out assessments more quickly and efficiently, reduce the possibility of errors, and ensure that all assessment steps have been carried out according to specified standards,” he explained.

The aim of this activity was acknowledged by DR. R. Wedi that assessors must also avoid errors: Errors in the RPL process can have serious impacts, such as incorrect recognition of competency or a discrepancy between the RPL results and the actual competency of the individual being assessed. Socialization helps minimize the risk of errors.

“We encourage Technology Adoption: Change always meets resistance. “Socialization helps reduce uncertainty and fear of new technology by providing the knowledge and skills necessary to use it,” he said.

The resource person who attended this activity, Dr. Ir. Ahmad Rifandi from the Directorate General of Learning and Student Affairs, explained that this activity was attended by Assessor participants, consisting of the Head of the Study Program and prospective assessors for each study program that organizes the RPL program.

“We provide this socialization as Feedback: Assessors can provide input or feedback regarding the implemented information system, which can be used to improve the system in the future,” explained Dr. Ir. Ahmad Rifandi.

He believes that assessors must build trust. When assessors understand and are comfortable with the system, they are more likely to trust the results of the system and feel more confident in using it.

“This is a form of maintaining Process Integrity: A good information system must be able to maintain the integrity of RPL data and processes, so that the results obtained can be trusted and recognized by all interested parties,” he explained.

This socialization aims to disseminate information, increase understanding, and motivate interested parties to support and participate in the program.

In implementing socialization, steps must be taken to implement socialization.

“Assessors must start on time. Determine the most appropriate time and place for socialization. “Choose a location that is easily accessible to participants and a time that does not interfere with their routine activities,” he explained.

Apart from that, literacy regarding information is very important so as not to give wrong information.

“Distribute information about socialization to interested parties. This can be done via invitation letter, email, social media, or other media.
Implementation of Socialization: On the day of implementation, make sure everything runs smoothly. “Starting with the opening, material presentation, question and answer session, until closing,” he explained.

In implementing RPL participants, they are expected to use visual media such as presentation slides to increase participants’ understanding.

“Between Assessors and RPL participants, there must be interaction and discussion: Provide opportunities for participants to ask questions and discuss. “This interaction will increase their understanding and involvement in the RPL process,” he explained.

Next, the assessor must carry out an evaluation.

“After the socialization is complete, carry out an evaluation to determine the effectiveness of the socialization. This evaluation can be through questionnaires, interviews, or group discussions. “The evaluation results will be input for improving socialization in the future,” he said.

Evaluation must be carried out based on feedback from participants.

“This must be a two-way communication, namely determining the necessary follow-up actions, such as holding further training, workshops or additional meetings,” he explained.

Don’t forget that assessors must also document the entire socialization process, from planning to implementation. This will help in reporting and planning subsequent outreach.

“By carrying out systematic and structured socialization, it is hoped that prospective assessors and other related parties will better understand and support the Past Learning Recognition process,” concluded Dr. Ir. Ahmad Rifandi from the Directorate General of Learning and Student Affairs.