Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
PLAR is an assessment of learned opticianry skills of individuals who have previous working experience in optical settings. PLAR is assessed through the National Alliance of Canadian Opticianry Regulators (NACOR).
PLAR assesses the skill level of opticianry candidates who have not completed recognized accredited education. Following the assessment, anyone requiring additional training is assigned courses that focus on skills where they need to improve.
Upon successful completion of PLAR and all required training, candidates may apply to the COA for a provisional permit to apply to sit the national exam.
All PLAR candidates must successfully pass the national exam to become a registered optician.
Why is PLAR important to employers?
Individuals with optical working experience and internationally trained candidates may have some of the required skills to meet the national competencies and pass the national exam, even without completion of an accredited program. Therefore, completion of an accredited program may not be necessary to become a registered optician.
PLAR allows these candidates to take a skills assessment (Competency Gap Analysis or CGA) to identify any areas requiring improvement. Candidates must complete bridging courses for those skills prior to taking the national exam.
PLAR candidates must complete all parts of the PLAR process before they can write the national exam.
They eye health team has a variety of employees that are all valuable to patient care. Employing registered opticians may have the following benefits:
- Enhance Quality of Care: Registered opticians are held to professional standards and support the provision of high-quality care to your clients. This can lead to better patient outcomes and increased customer satisfaction.
- Reputation: Employing registered opticians helps build trust with your clients.
If an employer has a candidate which they feel PLAR may be appropriate, further information can be found on the National Alliance of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR) website.