The need, practice, and values of micro-credentials in the academic and business sector

Abstract

Industry 4.0 - the new order that reflects today's technological reality has only opened the "infinite Universe" of various possibilities and satisfaction of practical and business needs, so that the challenges in this sphere still exist, both in terms of improving and increasing the overall system of micro-credentials. Such changes have undoubtedly opened new industry sectors and professional disciplines and created some professions in more specific subspecialties, creating a greater need for continuous upskilling and improvement.
Micro-credentials as a modern concept of designing an educational-practical mix of knowledge and skills strengthens competitiveness in every industry and business environment. The concept of Micro-credentials also means setting up an adequate number of courses, practical skills within the academic and business community, or institutions that are accredited to combine such practical trainings, without having to invest in an expensive long-term educational and teaching process. Some typical examples of micro-credentials can be find in inter-modal domains as well as to acquired knowledge in ICT, digital entrepreneurship, digital marketing, data analytics, finance, corporate planning etc.
Micro-credentials can also play an active role and support the professional development and mobility of workers, including people in non-standard forms of work, such as those in the platform economy (all economic activity arising out of actual or intended commercial transactions in the internal market and facilitated directly or indirectly by online platforms, in particular online - intermediation services and online search engines), and who may have difficulties accessing training depending on their work status.
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In that regard, the institutions in the EU give an appropriate place to the concept of micro-credentials. According to the EU recommendation, the support is aimed to the development, implementation, and recognition of micro-credentials across institutions, businesses, sectors, and borders. An effective culture of lifelong learning is key to ensuring that everyone has the knowledge, skills, and competences they need to thrive in their personal and professional lives. The aim of this paper is to explain key concepts and provide description and specific position of the micro-credentials in academic and business sector as a stackable certification and a flexible way to address the demand for continuous learning and the need for agile, targeted education and skills development in response to rapidly changing job requirements and employability.