Professional Development at the University of Southern Maine now offers digital badges and micro-credentials
What is a digital badge?
Badges tell a story. Each is embedded with data that verifies a learner’s skills and achievements in a particular course or pathway— and they are meant to be shared on social media, websites, and in emails!
What is a micro-credential?
A micro-credential is a verified credential earned when learners demonstrate what they know and are able to perform related to a specific subject. They show their understanding through evidence and application.
Micro-credentials consist of stacked digital badges that offer learners a way to highlight the skills and competencies critical to success.
Why are micro-credentials important?
- Demonstrate skills in real-world settings
- Stand out to employers
- Verify competencies, beyond your transcript and resume, improving marketability
- Discoverable when shared
- Articulate one’s skill during interviews
Learn more about more badges offered through the University of Maine System.
86% of hiring managers indicate that it is “very important” that recent applicants demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world settings and only 39% think recent applicants are well-prepared to apply skills in real-world settings.*
*Hart Research Associates. Fulfilling the American Dream: Liberal Education and the Future of Work (Washington, D.C.: AAC&U, 2018)