With rapid changes and development in technology, the current job structure has completely transformed. Many new job roles are emerging and becoming immensely vital for the organization. There is also a need for acquiring newer skill sets which means that the workforce has to gain new expertise to be able to flourish in the modern workforce.
Micro-credentials become extremely important in this scenario as they are the best tool for upskilling. They are a feasible means of acquiring competencies that allow one to carry out job responsibilities effectively.
Understanding micro-credentials
Micro-credentials are mini qualification that allow an individual to gain knowledge or expertise in a given area or domain. The skills that these nano degrees provide are very narrow and limited to particular expertise. Unlike diplomas or degrees that take several years to complete, micro-credentials imbibe all the necessary knowledge in a short time frame.
The expertise that you gain from these mini qualifications is immediately applicable to your job role. You can acquire a micro-credential in various fields ranging from social media marketing to even business communications.
These nano degrees are offered as digital badges which are given after you have successfully acquired a skill. Along with universities and colleges, you can also get these badges at work through practical job training.
Need of the hour
The business landscape has shifted drastically after the pandemic as every industry has adopted newer technological tools. This has greatly impacted job roles as responsibilities have upgraded. Revamping of work culture and the introduction of modern tools including the digitalization of every sector has left vast room for upskilling.
For example, the traditional form of marketing which was once the norm has now been replaced by digital marketing. Those part of the workforce who lost their job due to all these changes or are looking to adapt to the new work tactics can gain a lot from a micro-credential.
Also, the millennials and Gen Zs are keener to acquire skills that are directly applicable to the workplace and benefit a lot from such digital badges. There are many benefits that micro-credentials have which makes them immensely popular and useful in the current times
Benefit of microcredentials
Some of the main advantages that micro-credentials have are the following:
- Practical skill-building
In the age of micro content and bite-sized videos, everyone is looking for easier ways to gain new skills. Gaining any expertise is only useful if it is applicable to one’s current job role or can help them switch to something better.
Obtaining a micro-credential has an edge over other qualifications here as it imbibes necessary training that can be immediately applied to one’s work. It also allows you to illustrate to your employers that you have the necessary practical knowledge needed for the job profile. Those who are looking to become technologically competent can make great use of this mini qualification as well. They can easily learn how to navigate through the digital landscape in a short time.
- Feasible to learn
Talking of learning in a short time, not everyone can afford to go back to college or university to continually upskill. From a practical point of view, it makes no sense as it becomes a time-consuming and expensive way of learning.
On the other hand, micro-credentials can be acquired in a smaller time frame without burning a hole in your pocket.