Learning Burst: Digital credentials all sewn up

Open badges have been instrumental in changing the learning landscape, both in traditional educational settings and the modern workplace. Central to this shift are OpenBadges and Badgr.

The Basics of Digital Credentialing

Open Badges are like the Cubs and Brownie badges we earned as children, or like the giant swim badges we used to stitch to our Speedos. To show the world that we know the difference between a clove hitch and a reef knot, or that we can swim a full length in our pyjamas. Only, instead of being fabric, they are digital, but they still offer a representation of our skills, achievements and competencies.

Unlike our 80’s counterparts, Open Badges carry metadata such as user information, awarding criteria, and the evidence that underpins them. The flexibility of an open badge makes them ideal for micro-credentialing and representing specific skills. And because we can no longer stitch these awards to our clothes, Open Badges can be shared on digital platforms like LinkedIn.

Badgr – A Platform for OpenBadges

Badgr (https://info.badgr.com/) is one of the leading platforms built around the OpenBadges standard. It not only allows you to create and issue badges but also provides a space for learners to showcase their badges (via a digital backpack). Badgr can also be incorporated into popular Learning Management Systems, such as Moodle.

Getting Started with Badgr:

1. Creating a Badge: Design your badge and decide on the criteria. Embed the necessary metadata aligning with OpenBadges specifications.

2. Issuing a Badge: Once a learner meets the criteria, you can issue the badge manually or through automated systems.

3. Showcasing Badges: Badgr provides learners with a profile where they can showcase their badges, which can then be shared on other platforms, most notably, LinkedIn.

Advantages of Using Badgr:

1. Integration: Can be integrated with popular Learning Management Systems (LMS).

2. Analytics: Provides insights into badge issuance, acceptance rates, and more.

3. Badge Pathways: Allows the creation of badge pathways – sequences where one badge leads to another, illustrating a learning pathway.

Best Practices

2. Be strict: Only issue badges when the criteria are genuinely met. This maintains the badge’s value.

3. Promote sharing: Encourage learners to share their badges, increasing the visibility of your credentialing.

4. Regular updates: Technology and standards evolve. Ensure your badges and the criteria they represent stay current.

Conclusion

Open badges are a modern, flexible, and verifiable way of showcasing skills and achievements. Standards like OpenBadges and platforms like Badgr support the use of these badges. They can be leveraged by educational institutions, corporations, or independent educators to enhance the value and recognition of the learning experiences they offer.

By understanding and utilising these tools, organisations and individuals can stay ahead in the competitive market and demonstrate their expertise in a more transparent and credible manner. Above all, your learners feel a sense of accomplishment, and whilst they may not be able to sew them on any more, they can still wear them with pride.