The Tennessee State University Center for Extended Education and Public Service has been selected to participate in the national pilot phase of “Learning Counts,” a new online initiative launched by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL).

Among an inaugural group of more than 70 institutions, the Center will use Learning Counts to enhance its current service for adult learners at TSU by offering credible, third-party assessment of college-level learning.

CAEL, a national non-profit organization that creates effective learning strategies for working adults, developed Learning Counts to assess the value of knowledge acquired outside the classroom that can be translated into earned college credits in the liberal arts and professional areas.

“The staff of the Center for Extended Education and Public Service is excited about TSU’s selection to take part in this national pilot. Portfolio development will increase the number of tools we have to help attract more working adults to the University,” said Dr. Sharon D. Peters, director of off-campus programs and evening weekend college in the Center for Extended Education and Public Service.

“Through Learning Counts, our Center can help TSU students accelerate degree completion, allow working learners to demonstrate workplace competencies, aid transitioning workers by documenting their current skill sets and help military personnel transition skills into a civilian career,” Peters added.

In addition to transforming real-life skills into higher education academic standards, Learning Counts will refer students to the American Council on Education and the College Board for training evaluation and standardized exam services.

CAEL plans to implement Learning Counts at more institutions across the country. TSU’s Center for Extended Education and Public Service began operating Learning Counts in December 2010.