Who benefits from micro-credentials?
Micro-credentials are aimed for professionals regardless of age and background, including the unemployed, entrepreneurs, and/or temporary project employees. The goal of micro-credentials is to increase individuals’ knowledge levels so they can build their careers. Acquiring new knowledge should not automatically mean long and expensive education but can also be short learning experiences.
Micro-credentials are widely used in various education and sectors to meet the demands of working life. In 2022, EU approved a European recommendation for micro-credentials. You can read more about it here [https://education.ec.europa.eu/sv/education-levels/higher-education/micro-credentials].
Are micro-credentials different from traditional university courses?
The answer is both yes and no. Micro-credentials maintain the same high-quality content (research-based course) but differ in terms of length and scope. At Åbo Akademi, a course is normally five credits, while micro-credentials can comprise one or two (or more) credits. One credit corresponds to approximately 27 hours of work.
Do you get a certificate or other proof of a completed micro-credential?
When the course is completed and approved, the performance (credits) is registered in Åbo Akademi’s study register (called Peppi). It is the university’s task to register study performances, and the learner can thus count the performances towards a later degree (e.g., master’s program, either at Åbo Akademi or another educational institution).
In addition to registered credits, you also receive a certificate for the completed course. We are currently working on developing a so-called digital badge.
Why does the education cost?
Micro-credentials are short courses with specific content, based on research and special knowledge of the research and teaching staff at Åbo Akademi. Micro-credentials are not necessarily included in the teaching program for degree students at Åbo Akademi or in the offerings of the Open University. Micro-credentials are often not bound to fixed schedules, which gives flexibility to the learner. However, we guarantee high-quality and research-based education in selected areas, offered only in the form of micro-credentials (short learning experiences).
How should I combine the courses?
Micro-credentials can be combined in different ways, e.g., so that you deepen your knowledge in a certain theme or broaden your knowledge in many different areas. It simply depends on your own needs.
Can I complete a micro-credential at any time?
In the autumn of 2024 and spring of 2025, we offer two modules, during which a number of courses are available. These are Business Development (read more here) and The Business of Human Rights (read more here). In the Business Development module, you can register for the courses continuously and complete them according to your own schedule until 31.5.2025. The courses in The Business of Human Rights run from January to May 2025, and you have the opportunity to participate in events on campus if you wish. The courses can of course also be completed without participating online or on-site, but this option is offered as The Business of Human Rights is also offered to degree students during the same period. This allows you as a participant to listen to interesting guests and lecturers in the courses or participate in discussions with other learners.
How does the course progress?
Each course has an examiner who is in contact with you, e.g., by providing feedback on possible written submissions and other tasks you do within the course framework. Generally, you receive feedback about a week after submitting a task. In some courses, you meet the examiner online for discussions. We use a wide range of methods to make learning as effective as possible.
Are the courses online or do I have to participate on campus?
The courses are accessed via Digicampus.fi and can be completed online (remotely). In some cases, there is an opportunity to participate in guest lectures and workshops both virtually and on campus. Participating in a course does not require you to be physically present on campus.
”I don’t have time. Can I cancel my registration?”
You have the opportunity to cancel your registration and get a refund if you notify us within two weeks of registration and provided you have not started the course (e.g., submitted work that has been commented on by the examiner).
What are the criteria for passing the course?
To pass, all tasks must be submitted and approved by the examiner. A task is always described in writing but can be carried out in different ways, depending on the instructions (written, oral, video-based, quiz, etc.). The material you are asked to take part in in micro-credential courses can be an academic article, a book chapter, a podcast, or a YouTube video; it depends on the purpose of the exercise. In almost all micro-credential courses, you have the opportunity to reflect on your own professional role and workplace as well as development opportunities concerning the course theme.