Are Microcredentials Becoming a Big Deal? Briefing Note

Microcredentials are not new. They have been in use in various countries and education and training sectors; they have played a role, among others, in the certification of IT courses or health workers' professional development. However, only recently have microcredentials gained EU-wide attention in policy debates. Most countries, as yet, have no official definition. Even the term 'microcredentials' is not well-known, with certificates for short learning formats being referred to in various ways, including 'micro certifications, 'badges', 'micro/partial/supplementary qualifications' and 'module certificates'. Despite the different terms, European countries certify many short learning activities in ways that, either fully or partly, meet the definition proposed by the European Commission. These developments reflect that the character, format and purpose of microcredentials are changing. To support the Commission's consultation exercise, Cedefop carried out a comprehensive study on microcredentials, which looked at their characteristics, how they are designed, delivered and recognised, why they are in demand, how they are being used, and what their advantages and limitations are. Cedefop's findings also fed into the working document that accompanied the proposed Council Recommendation. This briefing note outlines the study's interim results.