Micro-credentials - advantages and disadvantages

Read Wendy Cato's linked in post (written within the Australian context I think) this morning and it triggered a reflection on the status and use of micro-credentials.

In NZ, micro-credentials were piloted a couple of years ago. They are now 'mainstream' and the general rule is that they should be 'stakable' rather than strictly standalone. 

Overseas, recent articles support the provision of micro-credentials. For example bbc posted an article on whether micro-credentials could compete with traditional degrees. And todayonline had an article on google courses which promise a shortcut into high paying jobs and what this means for skills training. 

Examples on youtube and individuals' post indicate self-directed learners are able to leverage of microcredentials - possibly in the ICT discipline.

So there is a place for micro-credentials but they really need to be led by individual's learning needs, rather than be imposed. Going down the micro-credentials route may be productive in the short term. However, by the nature of their small size and deep specialisation, microcredentials have limited reach. They are good for just-in-time, keep up with tech/latest processes type learning outcomes. Used as a supplement to broader education, micro-credentials have a distinct niche.

However, saying micro-credentials will replace degrees may be too far reaching. A good general education is still something all should aspire to. The world needs broad and critical thinkers, to help deal with the large challenges posed by climate change, globalisation and the ongoing pandemic. Micro-credentials allow for quick and deep specialisation, required to solve wicked problems. However, the ability to look beyond the narrow confines of ones specialisation are key to creativity and innovation along with the many skills, knowledge an dispositions to understand and work collaborative with others - who may think very differently from ourselves.

So as with everything,there are pluses and minuses to micro-credentials. The important aspect is to ensure the completion of small components of learning, helps people achieve work outcomes. However, to also remember, that qualifications of any sort, must not lead to 'dead ends' given the speed at which the future of work is evolving.