New Challenge Assessments at Sheridan a first-in-the-province approach to recognize and reward prior learning

Sheridan recognizes that formal learning happens both inside and outside the traditional classroom environment. That's why we’re proud to pilot a first-of-its-kind in Ontario approach to awarding learners credit for their prior learning and knowledge through Challenge Assessments. 
  
The process – known as Advanced Entry Prior Learning and Recognition – is designed to challenge or test learners’ skills in specific knowledge streams for credit, enabling them to accelerate their learning. The pilot program will begin with students in Sheridan's Software Development and Network Engineering program.

"Successful students can fast-track their learning, focusing on just the skills and technologies most relevant to their journeys, potentially side-stepping normally required subjects they already know well," says Simon Hood, professor in Sheridan’s School of Applied Computing. 
 
The initiative is the first of its kind in Ontario and immediately responds to workforce demand. Allowing students to fast-track their education demonstrates Sheridan's industry responsive approach to education. 

"These Challenge Assessments are a gamechanger in the public postsecondary system," says Carol Altilia, Provost and Vice President, Academic at Sheridan. “This initiative meets the demands of learners whose life circumstances require faster time to credential completion, while also ensuring that Sheridan continues to provide industry with the pipeline of qualified graduates who are urgently needed to address labour market shortages and drive economic benefit.”
 
Students will be able to challenge the following skills: 
• Programming – Introductory
• Programming – .NET 
• Programming – Advanced Java
• Networking 
• Web Development 
• Operating Systems 
• Databases 
• Software Design 
• Mobile App Development – Android 
• Mobile App Development – iOS 
• Game Development – UNITY
• Wireless

To determine if a student is eligible for credit in one or more courses, assessments will be evaluated for a fee by Sheridan College Assessment Centre or through an approved Test Centre.  
 
Following the successful completion of the pilot phase of this program, Sheridan will be looking to expand Challenge Assessments to other academic programs.