This study examines the role of microcredentials in supporting learning for employment. The study collected information through an online survey among mostly European VET providers, national authorities, employee and employer organisations, in-depth country case studies and interviews, as well as Cedefop's ReferNet network. While the topic has…

The person, environment, and therapist (PET) Principle is an innovative teaching strategy designed to improve recall of foundational information, facilitate critical thinking, and improve self-efficacy of student and novice therapists. Specifically, the PET Principle is a microlearning strategy that helps students and novice therapists break down…

To advance the employability agenda in higher education, we need new ideas for embedding career skills into university curricula and novel tools for articulating the capabilities of learners. Situated in the discipline of environmental science, the aim of this study was to examine employer perceptions of the skills needed for a career in the…

The purpose of this article is to share worked examples of skills profiling within the universal micro-credential framework, a novel approach designed to further the enablement of 21st century skills which are defined here as a generalized series of competencies gained by a learner that enable them to self-reflect, self-regulate and self-optimize…

To address needs in one US state to provide a professional development micro-credential for tens of thousands of educators, we automated an assignment scoring workflow in an online course by developing and refining an AI model to scan submitted assignments and score them against a rubric. This article outlines the AI model development process and…

Despite calls to modernize education preparation, the way we train, support, and grow educators has remained largely unchanged for decades. But some educator training and professional development organizations are taking a different approach by offering educators flexible and job-embedded learning opportunities that recognize and validate learning…

Learners who learn from OER often cannot have their learning assessed or receive a credential. Open credentials offer a potential solution to this problem, combining badges or micro-credentials with competence frameworks and digital seals. This study identified the current situation of open credentials in post-secondary education in Europe, the…

The complex interplay between labour market needs and education poses significant challenges to the teaching profession, frequently criticised for its perceived inadequacy in addressing contemporary work - life dynamics and professional practices. In response to these challenges, the "'Micro-Placements'" initiative was introduced in an…

Purpose: The study aims to investigate students' attitudes toward using technology for micro-credential programs (MCPs) and their behavioral intention toward using MCPs for learning and enhancing their skills. The study also intends to investigate the moderating influence of labor market conditions (LMC). Design/methodology/approach: A…

Purpose: This study aims to present the evaluation of a competency-based online professional development training program, PhD Progression, tied to a digital badge system, created to support PhD students across fields. Design/methodology/approach: This study took place at Boston University, a large, nonprofit, Carnegie Classified R1…

Although there is no globally accepted definition to guide micro-credential activity in higher education, many seek to boost the employability prospects of earners. To do this well, micro-credentials need to indicate skills and competencies. Assessment ensures those skills and competencies are verified, enabling trust and communication in the…

Purpose: The study aims to consider the multiple affordances of micro-credentials as a means of creating agency and making a positive contribution to the human experience, through the voices of practitioners and stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach: Multiple case study, narrative inquiry, using Reflexive Thematic Analysis to identify themes…

Nanolearning represents an educational methodology rooted in personalisation and the individualisation of the educational process, leveraging contemporary information technologies. Nanolearning, closely intertwined with self-regulated learning, entails an individual's capacity to plan, monitor and regulate their learning process, objectives and…

The aim of this research is to give an overview of the psycho-didactical model of Engineering Pedagogy, as the basis of effective STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts (Design), Mathematics) teaching and instructional design. Attributes of engineering graduates and basic skills of 21st century graduates are presented. The competency model…

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine how beginning teachers' participation in a microcredential based on trauma-informed classroom management and restorative discipline (TIMRD) practices might enhance their self-efficacy (SE), through an understanding of their own trauma response, its neurobiological basis and classroom interventions…