Publication: Effects of Recognition of Prior Learning on Job Market Outcomes: Impact Evaluation in Bangladesh
Date
2021-04
ISSN
Published
2021-04
Author(s)
Nakata, Shiro
Sharma, Uttam
Rahman, Tashmina
Rahman, Mokhlesur
Aziz, Mustahsin-Ul
Abstract
The recognition of prior learning
provides opportunities for workers to have their skills
assessed and certified. In many countries, recognition of
prior learning is expected to broaden individuals’
empowerment and economic opportunities. Using a randomized
control trial method, this impact evaluation study aims to
assess whether and to what extent assessment and
certification of prior learning effectively improve economic
and other job outcomes among assessment participants in
Bangladesh. Five hundred applicants were randomly assigned
to the treatment group and 500 applicants to the control
group. The baseline survey took place in June 2018 and the
end-line survey in January 2019. The findings indicate that
assessment prior learning positively impacts workers’
employment outcomes and quality of employment, including the
chance of getting employed, wage levels, formality of
employment, and workers’ confidence in their skills and
jobs. The findings also suggest that women may benefit more
than men from certificates of recognition of prior learning
in Bangladesh. The transition analysis further supports the
finding that recognition of prior learning facilitates the
transition of unemployed or not-working workers into
employment. Recognition of prior learning also increases the
chances of finding work through formal job search channels
and at formal and larger private companies. These findings
align with the assumption and expectation behind the
recognition of prior learning programs in the context of
economic development. The participants in assessments and
certification of prior learning had overwhelmingly positive
opinions about them. The study has some limitations and
suggestions for future research.
Citation
“Nakata, Shiro; Sharma, Uttam; Rahman, Tashmina; Rahman, Mokhlesur; Aziz, Mustahsin-Ul. 2021. Effects of Recognition of Prior Learning on Job Market Outcomes: Impact Evaluation in Bangladesh. Policy Research Working Paper;No. 9644. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/35522 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”
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