Microcredentials 101: They’re Not Just Badges

Description

How can we better recognize student learning beyond traditional grades? What if there were a way to represent mastery of specific skills, knowledge, and competencies—offering a clearer, student-centered picture of achievement. Microcredentials are transforming classroom learning by providing students with meaningful recognition of what they know and can do. As more classrooms adopt personalized and project-based learning, microcredentials are becoming powerful tools to engage, motivate, and empower students. Join Lauren Boucher for this hands-on, interactive workshop as we explore what defines a quality microcredential, how they are being used in K—12 classrooms, and why they are gaining momentum to make learning visible and relevant for students. Lauren's expertise in digital teaching and learning will equip you with practical tools and strategies to rethink how student learning is acknowledged and celebrated, proving that microcredentials are far more than just badges!

Objectives

1. Define microcredentials and distinguish them from digital badges or participation rewards.
2. Explain the educational purpose and benefits of using microcredentials with students.
3. Implement microcredentials as part of classroom instruction to recognize specific student competencies.
4. Identify key elements that make a microcredential meaningful and aligned with learning goals.
5. Assess the effectiveness of microcredentialing in promoting student engagement and growth.
6. Design a simple microcredential framework to support student learning in your classroom.

Key Take Aways

• Understand what a microcredential is (and is not) and how it differs from simple rewards or badges.
• Explore the essential components of a high-quality microcredential that clearly demonstrates student mastery.
• Discover classroom strategies for using microcredentials to support personalized, competency-based learning.
• Learn how microcredentials can empower students by highlighting skills, fostering ownership, and building real-world connections.