Micro-credentials

A pilot programme was undertaken with the Insurance Institute of Ireland to research the introduction of digital credentials allowing users to easily store, share and validate digital credentials as a considerably more efficient alternative to the current paper-based transcripts, certificates and parchments. 

The current process of digital credential issuing, verification and access is cumbersome and, in some instances, not fit-for-purpose. 

In addition, there is a growing demand for continuous professional development and re-skilling of the workforce, which necessitates a need to facilitate the formal recognition of non-standard learning. 

It was found that Digital Badges & Micro-Credentials are required for a modern workforce, expanding skillset and lifelong learning. 

Solutions – by both private and open service providers– were explored, with positives and negatives noted for each. 

However, it was noted that the implementation of IT Infrastructure to support digital credentials needs to consider the roles and interactions between the main three stakeholders: Learners (students/employees), Issuers (universities) and Employer (company).