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Developing Guidelines for the implementation of micro-credentials in higher education

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Primary Data

Project title
Developing Guidelines for the implementation of micro-credentials in higher education
Code
MicroGuide
Project Coordinator
Participant Organization(s)
 
Co-Investigator(s)

Description

Abstract
Micro-credentials allow for a targeted acquisition of skills and competences while not replacing traditional qualifications. In 2019, the EU surpassed the 40% tertiary education attainment target in most EU countries. However, the knowledge and competences acquired through formal education and training must be adapted to a fast-changing society. High quality, innovative and learner-centred education and training would be further enhanced with the flexibility that microcredentials can offer. Continuous learning recognised through micro-credentials can fill existing and emerging skills gaps, facilitating inclusion in lifelong learning by reaching new learners, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. With a low entry barrier, micro-credentials could be an initial step for learners who might traditionally have been discouraged to enter the education system; they can also be the means to enable more fluid learning pathways, thereby realising the vision of lifelong learning. High-quality, innovative and learner-centred education and training provision offered by universities and other education and training organisations can be enhanced through the flexibility that micro-credentials can offer individuals throughout life. Micro-credentials offer higher education and training institutions new opportunities aligned with their societal mission. The development of micro-credentials can also build on existing EU and European Higher Education Area transparency and quality assurance tools. These are key for the recognition of micro-credentials within and across borders. These tools and processes will enable micro-credentials to be issued based on qualityassured learning. Micro-credentials could be issued to a learner following an assessment of learning outcomes. In addition to national tools and infrastructure, the Europass Digital Credentials Infrastructure will support the issuing, sharing and storage of all forms of learning achievements in a digital format, including micro-credentials, and will link to the European Student Card Initiative. A European approach to micro-credentials would aim to ensure a shared understanding and a transparent and common definition of what micro-credentials are to promote trust in microcredentials across countries and educational and economic sectors. A common approach must be sought at this point, thus avoiding multiple interpretations of what micro-credentials are and establishing how micro-credentials relate to National Qualification Frameworks, national qualification systems and current certificates and diplomas. Therefore, by developing the Guidelines for the implementation of micro-credentials in higher education, the Project will support the joint European efforts in this area.