Introduction

Project Butterfly has been conceived as a pilot project with the aim to further develop the media in southern Africa and in particular Namibia by seeking to establish standards of knowledge and practice among mid-career journalists and media professionals.

The first program of its type among tertiary institutions in the region, the Polytechnic of Namibia in association with Elizabethtown College of Pennsylvania (USA), will offer a certificate recognizing the prior learning and expertise of the participants who meet all of the standards set forth by the program. Successful participants will be able to use the certificate to gain admittance to a diploma or degree program at the Polytechnic of Namibia beginning in the year 2000. The certificate will make it possible for the learning achievements of participants on this program to be nationally recognized by the Namibian Qualifications Authority. It is also hoped that this exercise results in its standards being used as imput to the various standards setting processes currently being undertaken by educational and professional bodies in Namibia and many of the countries in the southern Africa region.

The project is based on the concept of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). That is, mid-career journalists, in the absence of an educational credential like a diploma or degree, will be able to be recognized for past learning of knowledge, skills, and experience which will allow for identification of areas of needed training, future education and mobility in career path.

The assessment is made against standards and criteria set by the program. Based on portfolio assessment of documentation and evidence, participants will be required to take part in an observation exercise and assessment interview. Successful evaluation of all standards must be met in order for the certificate to be awarded.

A booklet is provided to all participants as a guide to the process of assessment of standards and compilation of the portfolio.

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