Microcredentials offer a means to recognize and authenticate competencies learned through experience, professional practice, or a few courses. Microcredentials are certifications of one or more competencies in specific fields. Employers and employees recognize microcredentials as ways to gain and authenticate skills for professional development. According to EdSurge (Jeffrey R. Young, Oct 5, 2017), these "micro" offerings are akin to university extension programs that have been offered by land grant colleges since the late 19th century. Some microcredentials are short-form graduate and certificate programs, such as Micromasters (edX.org) and Nanodegrees (Udacity). These programs offer learners a low- or no-barrier credential and serves as an introduction or entry into full online or in-person programs.

Other microcredentials are digital or web badges, which derive metaphorically from scouting badges, which designate specific achievements. Digital badges are an outgrowth of gamification, where learners/players are rewarded for accomplishing tasks. With well-defined learning outcomes and authoritative assessment, digital badges can serve as a form of alternative credential. Open technical standards developed by Mozilla have been adopted by organizations across industries, foundations and educational institutions to create Open Badges.

Microcredentials at Champlain

At Champlain, we are using the term "microcredential" to offer multiple ways for learners to gain and be recognized for competencies that will have value in the workplace and in continuing education, as well as in personal and social contexts.

As of 2020, we offer two types of microcredential:

Credential Type

Audience

Structure/Requirements

Purpose

Micro-Endorsements

Traditional Undergraduates

Learn, Do, Showcase.

Non-credit bearing.

See this memo for a description of the initial concept.

Can be accomplished in a 15-week period.

Motivate and Reward students for skills gained.

Students obtain official recognition that can be parlayed to internships, jobs or continuing education.

Micro-Certificates

Adult students in CCO

Nine-credit course series allows students to gain marketable skills and credits that can be "stacked" to earn a full certificate or degree.

Degree or certificate matriculation is not required.

Students can gain specific employer-desired skills.

Students receive certification for skills.

Students are motivated by low-barrier, low-risk access to continuing education.

Students can apply credits and learning toward a full certificate or degree.