The Learning Lab experience is supported by both asynchronous and synchronous components. Each part includes a set of resources, an asynchronous discussion, and an interactive live session, all of which culminate in the development of a project to apply learning to local and specific contexts in support of the learning objectives.
Schedule
Part 1: Microcredentialing Overview and Foundations
February 24, 2025, 12:00–1:30 p.m. ET
In our first session, we'll begin by learning the details of the Learning Lab format, the Canvas site, and expectations for the microcredential you will earn by successfully completing this course. There will also be time to get to know your fellow Lab partners and facilitators. Microcredentials are rapidly changing the landscape of learning, offering students flexible, specialized learning pathways that align with industry needs. Whether you're new to the concept or looking to enhance your institution's microcredentialing efforts, this session will provide you with a foundation for comprehensive understanding and practical tools to develop and scale a successful microcredentialing program at your institution or system.
Learning Objectives
- Define high-quality, academically rigorous microcredentials
- Understand the niche for higher education within a competitive national environment
- Gain familiarity with a variety of mirocredentialing models
Part 2: The Building Blocks of a High-Quality Microcredential Program
February 27, 2025, 12:00–1:30 p.m. ET
This session will focus on the core elements of a strong microcredential program, including policy development, mission/market alignment, variability across institution type, the use of digital badges, and information resources to use in the development process. Different microcredentialing models will be showcased, and you will gain familiarity with creative design options in developing microcredentials. The session will feature design personas and use cases to highlight the value proposition for microcredentialing.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the components of a successful microcredential program
- Understand the essential people, processes, and resources that are key to microcredential development
- Recognize creative design options that fit institutional mission, support student persistence, attract new students, provide for strong learning pathways, and meet state and industry needs
Part 3: Scaling Your Microcredential Program
March 3, 2025, 12:00–1:30 p.m. ET
To gain maximum impact from microcredentials, institutions need to have a plan to scale their microcredential program. This session will address growth strategies, marketing, encouraging faculty participation, resource needs, and program assessment/metrics. From a holistic perspective, opportunities for learning pathway development across degree and skill levels will also be explored.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the components of a successful microcredential array
- Understand strategies for scaling an institutional or system-wide microcredential program
- Identify opportunities for microcredentials to be part of new approaches to learning pathways across the career span
Part 4: Review and Reflect
March 10, 2025, 12:00–1:30 p.m. ET
As we move toward the conclusion of this Learning Lab, you will have time to synthesize what you’ve learned and for you to develop a possible microcredential roadmap for your institution. During this session we will review the microcredential building blocks and reflect on the future of microcredentialing. The Learning Lab will conclude with an opportunity to apply your learning with an implementation project (described below) and a closing live session to review and process the learning from the Lab. We will also offer a chance to answer any remaining questions you and your fellow Lab learners may have.
Learning Objectives
- Review fundamental building blocks of microcredentialing discussed throughout the learning lab
- Understand future trends in microcredentialing
- Demonstrate the ability to apply theoretical concepts to a real-world context, considering the unique needs and challenges of their programs and institutions
Lab Project/Assignment
Participants will design a microcredential, using templates provided or one of their own design. They will also create a roadmap to follow in developing a microcredential program at their institution.