Public Library Of Youngstown & Mahoning County: Micro-Credentials And Badges

Press release from the Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County:

Judy Jones

October 20th, 2021

As the world advances with the evolution of fast-moving technology, humans must adapt quickly, especially in the work and career environment.  Micro-credentials are becoming the reality for many students and adults.  It is vitally important to upskill or reskill so that you stay relevant and qualify for jobs that pay you an affordable living wage.  

What are Micro-credentials? Micro-credentials allow one to learn and demonstrate competency in a particular area, usually coursework that is offered in a shorter duration (from a regular semester) from an organization or educational institution.  They then receive a certificate or badge that is industry-recognized. For more information on micro-credentials, visit the Ohio Education Association. Other formats of micro-credentials are nanodegrees (specialized skills in Computer and Technology Science), digital badges, open badges (recognizes a variety of skills and knowledge), and micro degrees, (micro Bachelor’s and Master’s).  These types of degrees or badges offer in-demand skills. 

What are the different types of micro-credentials? There are a plethora of micro-credentials that are being offered nationwide, the list below is just a few examples:  

What is a Badge? 

A badge is a visual representation of your credential (much like a diploma or degree on paper).  They are digital badges that contain metadata about you and evidence that the coursework you participated in with a certain institution is relevant and truthful, and that you have met the required criteria of the institution (just like a class you take for a grade or a report card).   It can also hold other information such as URLs, issue dates, the badge image, and maybe even expiration dates. 

Different Types of Badges 

Our Survival Our economy in the United States depends on individuals to acquire quality skills in order to stay competitive in the workforce.  Our survival on the global platform depends on the creation and maintenance of a healthy work force.  Future of Work Strategist, Heather E. McGowan, states that “digital transformation is simply human transformation.”  She also states that “we as a nation need to shift from the idea that humans are a cost to contain into an asset to develop.”  A radical transformation needs to take place in our society that recognizes the need for humans to evolve into fulfilling, decent paying jobs, and to make our society more self-reliant.  For inspiration, watch: 

Higher Education Higher Education is experiencing a decrease in enrollments because of crippling debt, the time it takes to complete a program, and the relevance of degrees.  Many colleges and universities do not recognize non-credential coursework or experience to be transferred into degree-based programs, and this may need to change.  Studies from Strada data indicate that over 65% of adults would rather participate in non-degree programs focusing only on what they need to upskill or learn.  Many believe it is not necessary for people to get a college degree to advance in a particular field.  Students need more than conceptual learning, they need hands-on problem-solving skills and real-world knowledge.  Some Higher Education institutions are slowly coming to this realization and may need to come up with a solution to meet the demands and needs of employers.  Miami University in Ohio has recognized this and is now offering a micro-credential program.  See links below: 

For more information on credit-hour transfer policies for Ohio, visit: 

Other sources on Micro-Credentials: 

Other topics of interest 

Judy Jones

Judy is a certified Career Facilitator. She has worked with many patrons over the past four years assisting them in writing effective resumes and cover letters. She has guided individuals through the online job application process and has helped them register for Ohio Means Jobs. If you need assistance or would like to send her your resume for review, please email her at jjjones@libraryvisit.org. If you would like to call her to book an appointment, please call 330-744-8636. Judy in also an avid Anglophile! She likes to read British History, fiction and non-fiction, likes to watch TV shows and movies related to British History and often likes to pick at the historical accuracy of such shows.

This press release was produced by the Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County. The views expressed here are the author’s own.