Skip main navigation

Taking stock

It’s useful at this point to take stock of our discussion so far, and what we have explored.
Illustration of learners climbing up a stack of books and helping those behind them.
© shutterstock
It’s useful at this point to take stock of our discussion so far, and what we have explored.

So far, we have illustrated that regardless of competing definitions and understandings held by key stakeholders, micro-credentials are a growing phenomenon. They are attracting increasing attention around the world, and have a potentially transformative element by challenging the present status and value of existing credentials. There are important efforts underway to develop a common language for micro-credentials, particularly in Europe, and to more fully tease out the different forms they may take.

To help you recap and reflect on these points we suggest you return to the questions we asked at the start of this topic:

  • What is a micro-credential, fundamentally?
  • Are there different types of micro-credential?
  • What use are they to me and my organisation?

In the comments section, in a way that is relevant to your own context, we would love to read about your thoughts and experiences on the matter. There may be others in a similar field to you, so it would be interesting to see if you agree or (respectfully!) disagree with your peers. And, if you feel sceptical about the micro-credential craze you are not alone, so those views are welcome too!

In the next step, we “unbox” an important critical perspective that adds another layer to the micro-credential debate.

© DCU
This article is from the free online

Higher Education 4.0: Certifying Your Future

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now