Project Lawrence: Transforming Prior Learning Assessment Through AI

10 Pages Posted: 3 Jan 2025

See all articles by Valeri Chukhlomin

Valeri Chukhlomin

State University of New York - Empire State University

Date Written: December 16, 2024

Abstract

Individualized Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) has long presented a challenge for adult learners, who often need help translating their diverse experiences into academic credit. Traditional, course-mapped frameworks most institutions use frequently fail to recognize experiential knowledge adequately. Northeast State University (NSU, a pseudonym for a real, unnamed institution) distinguishes itself by offering a unique approach that promises students the ability to earn credit for an unlimited range of topics. Yet, even with this innovative approach, the CPL process remains complex and labor-intensive. Lawrence, a custom-built generative AI mentoring assistant designed for CPL, offers a transformative solution to this challenge. Currently in a training phase funded by the NSU Foundation, Lawrence leverages OpenAI's ChatGPT Plus Teams and is undergoing testing by business faculty. Building on foundational frameworks such as EMERALD and EMERALD-RING, which chart maturity levels for institutional AI integration, this article explores the evolution of CPL from traditional methods (Level 1) to early AI integration (Level 2) and finally to a fully Lawrence-centered model (Level 3). Through case studies, we demonstrate how Lawrence is designed to enhance efficiency, equity, and transparency, not only in prior learning assessment but also for broader applications of AI in higher education. By bridging the gap between academic institutions and the diverse learning journeys of adult students, Lawrence offers a framework for truly individualized and scalable higher education, setting a new benchmark for the future of AI-driven adult learning.

Keywords: Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), Adult Learners, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence (AI), EMERALD Framework, Mentoring Assistant

Suggested Citation

Chukhlomin, Valeri, Project Lawrence: Transforming Prior Learning Assessment Through AI (December 16, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5059729 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5059729

Valeri Chukhlomin (Contact Author)

State University of New York - Empire State University ( email )

113 West Avenue
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
United States
518-587-2100 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://www.sunyempire.edu

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