Key points

  • This paper explores the role of microcredentials as a formal recognition of a skill or competency (e.g., a certificate).
  • WxL conducted a study (using an employer survey, a student survey, and student interviews) to evaluate the awareness of microcredentials among work-integrated learning students and employers, the perceived value of microcredentials, and the impact of microcredentials on student motivation during professional development courses.
  • Results showed that general awareness of microcredentials remains low, but students and employers assigned moderate-to-high value to microcredentials in showing an employees’ competency.
  • Microcredentials were shown to increase students’ motivation to exert more effort in a professional development course if they were awarded a microcredential.

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