TESC PLA - How does it work?

[mednat]

Has anyone completed a PLA at TESC?

How feasible is it to complete one of the saylor courses intended for brandman university and create a PLA based on that?
IE: Could I complete the CS401: Operating systems saylor course and substantiate that in a PLA?

Is more evidence typically required?

Would it be enough if I had work experience that matched?
IE: if I've been a database administrator and completed CS403: intro to modern database systems on saylor?

I'm pretty confused on how this process works, or if it's even worth considering this route vs taking a class.

[sanantone]

I haven't submitted any portfolios yet, but I did read through the lessons for PLA-100 and PLA-200. Having professional experience and passing the final exam with Saylor should be enough. Taking the proctored exams meant for Brandman and other schools would provide even further proof. TESC looks for application and theory. Proof of knowing theory is usually demonstrated by showing proof of completing some kind of structured course. You'll have a transcript and certificate of completion from Saylor after passing the final exam. When you don't have proof of completing a course, TESC recommends creating an annotated bibliography. You may or may not have to provide proof of work experience. This is usually done by providing a letter from and contact information from a current or former supervisor. There are more details in the PLA materials on the Saylor website.