The role of engaging stakeholders and of quality assurance for delivering on the potential of micro-credentials

The objective of this Peer Learning Activity (PLA) was to explore successful approaches to engaging stakeholders and to quality assurance for delivering on the potential of micro-credentials. Developments from the Netherlands (the virtual host country), Italy and Slovakia were presented and some insights into current approaches in Greece and Slovenia were given. In addition, the European Commission provided an overview of progress made in implementing the European approach to micro-credentials, Cedefop outlined its current research work on micro-credentials, experiences from the Erasmus+ funded ‘Micro-credentials in Construction: Green Circle’ project were presented and the participants had the opportunity to discuss the topic of the PLA in small groups. Discussions during the PLA focused on more general aspects related to the concepts of micro-credentials, along with specific aspects of their quality assurance and of engaging stakeholders in their design and delivery. One of the key findings of the PLA is that micro-credentials are becoming more and more an integral part of the evolving education and training landscape in Europe. Evidence indicates that the use and definitions of micro-credentials vary across countries and sectors: some systems have adopted an official definition aligned with the Council Recommendation (2022), while others have practices that resemble micro-credentials but do not call them as such. Micro-credentials complement or supplement traditional qualifications, especially in VET, higher education, and lifelong learning systems. Recognising their potential, many countries are exploring or have started integrating micro-credentials into their National Qualifications Frameworks (NQFs), facilitating transparency, trust, portability, and alignment with existing systems. The recognition of micro-credentials – both nationally and across borders – is still inconsistent. Discussions explored the dilemma of balancing innovation and flexibility with appropriate levels of quality assurance. In this context, a further emerging key finding is that quality assurance needs to be proportional and adapted to the nature of micro-credentials as they are more flexible and more agile than traditional qualifications. Employers are increasingly recognised as drivers of micro-credentials development and use, especially in terms of relevance, acceptance, and integration into recruitment and upskilling pathways. Reflecting on the key features of successful stakeholder engagement strategies, PLA participants highlighted the importance of developing a shared understanding, internal support within organisations, and establishing common taxonomies.