A Case Study Investigating Ireland's Multistakeholder Effort Toward a National Vision for Micro-Credentials

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Sixteen
  In Roundtable Session: Career and Technical Education SIG Roundtable: Faculty and Stakeholder Impact (Table 3)

Abstract

Although academic research on microcredentials is still somewhat limited, substantial resources are being invested into their development across the globe. This development process is often siloed as different actors create microcredentials for their particular contexts. Many questions arise from their various approaches, especially related to consistency, quality, equity, data protection, and interoperability, among others. This qualitative case study investigates Ireland’s efforts engaging stakeholders from business, government, and higher education to implement microcredentials that align with skill gaps and integrate with the European Commission to ensure transferability of digital credentials. Interviews and document analysis were conducted. Four themes emerged as microcredential levers: (1) multiperspective partnerships, (2) defining of key terms, (3) COVID-19 as an accelerant, and (4) interoperability with EU.

Authors

• Jessa Henderson, The George Washington University
  Presenting Author

• Natalie B. Milman, The George Washington University
  Presenting Author