Less Is More: Exploring the Value of Micro-Credentials Within a Graduate Program

Exploring the potential of micro-credentials: A systematic literature review

“…The contribution of micro-credentials to lifelong learning has been observed from two different perspectives: fostering the development of certain skills in learners and the ability of micro-credentials to document learning achievements. The feature of micro-credentials, tracking and documenting learning achievements, is praised, as it advocates lifelong learning (Woods and Woods, 2021). The potential of microcredentials to facilitate the development of lifelong learners equipped with skills that would be easily reconciled with the specific demands of the labor market (Gauthier, 2020;Ashcroft et al, 2021) and to document the acquisition of these skills (Fisher and Leder, 2022) is undeniable.…”

“…To illustrate this point, Carey and Stefaniak (2018) explored open digital badges as substitutions for traditional credentials and diploma supplements. Moreover, McCullough and Buch (2020) recognize micro-credentials as an innovative solution in the context of higher education to record Stackability of credits and qualifications 17 Carey and Stefaniak, 2018;Jirgensons and Kapenieks, 2018;Ghasia et al, 2019;Ruddy and Ponte, 2019;Stefaniak and Carey, 2019;McCullough and Buch, 2020;Zhang and West, 2020;Ashcroft et al, 2021;Cook, 2021;Olcott, 2021;Ralston, 2021;Selvaratnam and Sankey, 2021;Wheelahan and Moodie, 2021;White, 2021;Woods and Woods, 2021;Clausen, 2022;Fisher and Leder, 2022 Integration into curriculum 24 Devedžić and Jovanović, 2015;Law, 2015;Copenhaver and Pritchard, 2017;Ippoliti and Baeza, 2017;Carey and Stefaniak, 2018;Cheng et al, 2018;Coleman, 2018;Ghasia et al, 2019;Ruddy and Ponte, 2019;Stefaniak and Carey, 2019;Cheng et al, 2020;McCullough and Buch, 2020;Newby and Cheng, 2020;Peacock et al, 2020;Alt, 2021;Ashcroft et al, 2021;Cook, 2021;Gamrat and Zimmerman, 2021;Olcott, 2021;R...…”

“…In such a way the idea of lifelong learning is supported, demonstrating the acquired competencies and skills, contributing to the recognition of the qualifications and competencies, increasing employability, and providing future career guidance (Cheng et al, 2020). Woods and Woods (2021) note, that for working adults, micro-credentials offer flexibility that cannot be provided by conventional degree programs.…”

Perceptions of Industry Professionals From Diverse Sectors on Post-Secondary Micro-Credentials on Linkedin

“…(2) The Significance of Micro-Credentials in Delivering focused Learning Opportunities Focused learning opportunities refer to targeted and tailored learning experiences designed to address specific skills gaps and prepare learners for job roles (Che Ahmat et al, 2021). Microcredentials are well-suited for delivering focused learning opportunities because they are typically shorter in duration and more narrowly focused than traditional degree programs or certifications (Woods & Woods, 2021). This allows learners to quickly gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a specific job or industry without investing significant time or money in a full degree program.…”