# BACKGROUND Learners take a variety of pathways to achieve their learning outcomes. Learning happens in many different environments and many different ways. All learning should be considered to assure a learner does not have to repeat prior learning. Northern College offers a flexible learning environment to en | | | |---|---| | Type | PDF | | Size | 280 KB | [Open original PDF →](https://www.northerncollege.ca/uploads/2025/07/A29_Learner-Pathways.pdf) Referenced from: [Policies & Procedures](/pages/academics/policies/) ## Document text SUBJECT ## BACKGROUND Learners take a variety of pathways to achieve their learning outcomes. Learning happens in many different environments and many different ways. All learning should be considered to assure a learner does not have to repeat prior learning. Northern College offers a flexible learning environment to ensure all learning can be assessed to define a learning pathway that continuously moves the learner forward. Factors influencing learner pathways include (but are not limited to) prior learning, including international credentials, accumulation of badges or micro credentials, co-curricular activities, applied research projects, experiential learning opportunities, changes in program offerings, changes in personal goals, breaks in their learning activities, and personal circumstances that interrupt their learning pathway. All pathways will be Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) compliant and seeks to ensure that all Ontarians have fair and equitable access to programs and services and to improve opportunities for persons with disabilities. The Act addresses barriers in Customer Service; Information and Communication; Employment; Transportation; the Design of Public Spaces. ## POLICY Northern College recognizes the need for flexible pathways and will support learners with individualized choices to achieve learning outcomes. Credit for prior learning may be achieved through prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR), flexible delivery models may be utilized, different delivery options may be utilized, and/or learners may amend their program of study. All options for learner pathways at Northern are in compliance with provincial standards and Ministry directives. ## SCOPE - Applies to all students entering, moving through, or leaving Northern college - Encompasses potential domestic, and international students - Considers prior, current, internal, and external learning - Acknowledges credentials from post-secondary institutions (public and private) apprenticeship and continuing education | ISSUE DATE | SUPERSEDES | MANDATORY REVIEW DATE | REFERENCE | SECTION | PAGE OF | PAGE OF | | --- Source: [https://www.northerncollege.ca/uploads/2025/07/A29_Learner-Pathways.pdf](https://www.northerncollege.ca/uploads/2025/07/A29_Learner-Pathways.pdf)