Ossiannilsson_The Role of Micro Credentials in Education and for LLL.pdf

The Role of Micro-Credentials in
Education and for LLL
EBBA OSSIANNILSSON, PROFESSOR, DR. SWEDEN
OSSIANNILSSON QUALITY IN OPEN ONLINE LEARNING CONSULTANCY, I4QUALITY
23 APRIL 2024, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Ossiannilsson_SPHERE TAM_The Role of Micro-Credentials
in Education and for Lifelong Lerarning 23 April 2024

AGENDA
Micro-Credentials
What it is and what its not
MC in Education
MC for LLL
Conclusion and Q&A

Micro-credentials play a significant role for both
individuals and the labor market by offering flexible and
targeted learning opportunities that align with the
evolving needs of learners and employers.

Micro-credentials recognize short-duration,
competency-based learning opportunities, that align
with labour market or community needs and can be
assessed and recognized for employment or further
learning opportunities.

Micro-credentials are a good opportunity for students,
and also for professionals who need to upgrade their
skills. They are a great way to showcase your skills and
expertise to an employer and to build a professional
portfolio that is unique to you

Micro-credentials are,
according to the MicroBol
project and the EU Council
Recommendation of June 16,
2022, evidence of learning
outcomes that can be
achieved in the context of a
small learning unit.

Micro-credentials are characterized by several key features that distinguish them
from traditional academic credentials and contribute to their flexibility, accessibility,
and relevance to learners and employers.

Modularity: Micro-credentials are designed to be modular, meaning that they focus on specific skills,
competencies, or knowledge areas rather than comprehensive academic programs. They are typically smaller in scope and
duration compared to traditional credentials, allowing learners to target their learning efforts on specific areas of interest or
need.
Flexibility: Micro-credentials offer flexibility in terms of both content and delivery formats. They can be delivered online, in-
person, or through a combination of modalities, allowing learners to access education and training in ways that fit their
schedules, preferences, and learning styles. Micro-credentials may also offer self-paced or on-demand learning options,
enabling learners to progress at their own pace.
Stackability: Many micro-credentials are designed to be stackable, meaning that they can be combined or aggregated into
larger credentials, such as certificates, diplomas, or degrees. Learners can earn multiple micro-credentials over time and
accumulate credits or credentials that contribute to their overall qualifications and career advancement.
Competency-based Assessment: Micro-credentials often utilize competency-based assessment methods to evaluate learners'
mastery of specific skills or competencies. Assessment tasks may include project-based assessments, performance evaluations,
simulations, or portfolios of work that demonstrate learners' abilities to apply knowledge and skills in real-world contexts.

Industry Relevance: Micro-credentials are often developed in collaboration with industry partners, employers, and
professional associations to ensure alignment with current and emerging workforce needs. They focus on developing
skills and competencies that are in high demand in the labor market, providing learners with practical and relevant
knowledge that enhances their employability and career prospects.
Credential Transparency: Micro-credentials typically use digital badges, certificates, or credentials that are easily
shareable and verifiable, providing transparent evidence of learners' achievements and competencies. Digital
credentials allow learners to showcase their skills to employers, peers, and educational institutions through online
platforms, social networks, or professional profiles.
Continuous Learning: Micro-credentials support a culture of continuous learning and professional development by
offering opportunities for individuals to acquire new skills and competencies throughout their careers. They enable
lifelong learners to engage in ongoing skills development, keep pace with technological advancements, and adapt to
changing job requirements in dynamic and rapidly evolving industries.
Affordability and Accessibility: Micro-credentials are often more affordable and accessible than traditional academic
programs, making them an attractive option for individuals seeking to enhance their skills or qualifications without
committing to full-time or costly educational pathways. They may offer lower tuition fees, shorter time commitments,
and flexible payment options that reduce barriers to entry for learners.
.

Overall, the key characteristics of micro-credentials
reflect their emphasis on targeted, flexible, and
industry-aligned learning experiences that empower
learners to acquire relevant skills, advance their
careers, and adapt to the demands of the modern
workforce.
.

https://icobc.net/our-expertise/reports/
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Ossiannilsson_SPHERE TAM_The Role of Micro-Credentials in Education and for Lifelong Lerarning 23 April 2024

Ossiannilsson_SPHERE
TAM_The
Role
of
Micro-Credentials
in
Education
and
for
Lifelong
Lerarning
23
April
2024

FOR INDIVIDUALS (1+2)
Flexibility and Customization: Micro-credentials provide individuals with the flexibility to pursue
specific skills or knowledge areas that are relevant to their career goals or personal interests. They
can choose from a wide range of micro-credential offerings and customize their learning pathways
according to their needs and preferences.
Lifelong Learning: Micro-credentials support lifelong learning by enabling individuals to acquire new
skills and competencies throughout their careers. They can continuously upskill or reskill themselves
in response to changing job requirements, technological advancements, or career transitions.
Recognition of Learning: Micro-credentials offer a means of recognizing and validating informal and
non-traditional learning experiences, such as online courses, workshops, or work-based learning
opportunities. They provide individuals with tangible credentials that can be showcased to
employers, peers, or educational institutions to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

Career Advancement: Micro-credentials can enhance individuals' employability and career
advancement opportunities by demonstrating their expertise in specific areas of knowledge or
practice. They can use micro-credentials to differentiate themselves in the job market, pursue new
career pathways, or qualify for promotions and salary increases.
Stackable Credentials: Many micro-credentials are designed to be stackable, meaning that they
can be combined or aggregated into larger credentials, such as certificates, diplomas, or degrees.
This allows individuals to build upon their existing knowledge and credentials over time, progressively
advancing their qualifications and career prospects.
Ossiannilsson_SPHERE TAM_The Role of Micro-Credentials in Education and for Lifelong Lerarning 23 April
2024

For the Labour Market (1+2)
Alignment with Industry Needs: Micro-credentials are often developed in collaboration with industry partners,
employers, and professional associations to ensure alignment with current and emerging workforce needs. They
address specific skill gaps or demand areas in the labor market, providing individuals with relevant and in-demand
competencies.
Rapid Response to Skill Demands: Micro-credentials offer a more agile and responsive approach to addressing skill
demands in the labor market compared to traditional educational programs. They can be developed and delivered
relatively quickly, allowing individuals to acquire new skills in high-demand areas with minimal time investment.
Diversification of Talent Pool: Micro-credentials enable a more diverse range of individuals to participate in the labor
market by providing alternative pathways to skills development and employment. They offer opportunities for
individuals from non-traditional backgrounds or underrepresented groups to access education and training that is
tailored to their needs and circumstances.

For the Labour Market (2)
Continuous Learning Culture: Micro-credentials contribute to fostering a culture of continuous
learning within organizations and industries by encouraging employees to engage in ongoing
skills development and professional growth. Employers may offer incentives or support for
employees to pursue micro-credentials as part of their professional development plans.
Credential Transparency and Verification: Micro-credentials provide employers with
transparent and verifiable evidence of individuals' skills and competencies, helping them make
more informed hiring and talent management decisions. Employers can validate the
authenticity and relevance of micro-credentials through digital badges, certificates, or
credentialing platforms.

In Summary
Micro-credentials serve as valuable tools for individuals to enhance their skills
and career prospects, while also supporting the dynamic needs of the labor
market by providing relevant and accessible learning opportunities. Their role is
increasingly recognized and valued by both learners and employers as part of
the broader landscape of lifelong learning and professional development.

My Footprints
www.i4quality.se
Ebba.Ossiannilsson@gmail.com
info@i4quality.se
CARING is SHARING, SHARING is CARING
THANK YOU

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