Globally, micro-credentials are in a state of proliferation. Their popularity stems from their flexible and on-demand form of delivering vital knowledge, skills, and competencies.

But without proper guidance, sound principles, and innovative practices to lean on, higher education institutions are falling short of non-traditional providers in the micro-credential playing field.

At the 2022 EDUCAUSE Annual Conference, Tim Hume, Chief Information and Digital Officer at Macquarie University, discussed how the University approached and implemented an institution-wide micro-credential strategy. Tim explored the university's micro-credential framework, including key strategic drivers, academic and technical considerations, and their chosen curriculum management solution.

If you didn't attend EDUCAUSE 2022 or would like to rewatch the presentation, you can access the recording below.

Featured speakers

Tim Educause headshot

Tim Hume 

Chief Information and Digital Officer, Macquarie University

Rob Educause headshot

Rob Bild

Managing Director and Head of Global Client Success, CourseLoop

Key highlights

  • With the skills gap widening, the need for on-going skills development is increasing. Middle income jobs are constantly being replaced by higher-skilled, higher-paid roles that take advantage of automation and computer power. Although traditional qualifications may benefit some, today's workers require easier entry points and more flexible delivery to take advantage of what universities can offer throughout their careers.
  • As part of Macquarie’s strategic direction, the University has decided to invest in mobilising micro-credentials in pursuit of the following critical drivers: global trends, national movement, MQU's operating plan, industry skilling, pedagogical innovation, competitive position, product diversification, and revenue generation. 

  • The University created a framework for micro-credentials, defining four types to offer different market segments. To govern and enable their framework across the micro-credentials lifecycle, the University developed a policy outlining approval, design and delivery, marketing, timing and offering, credentialing, and review processes.

  • Macquarie University selected CourseLoop as its curriculum management vendor to manage their micro-credential process.

 

 

Access the recording