Non-degree credentials continue to gain relevance and traction with learners and higher education leaders, resulting in a demand for credential innovation and for dedicated resources to advance quality standards, policy, and best practices. Further, flexible, skills-focused, and learner [and/or employer]-driven credentialing pathways position higher education institutions to overcome one of the greatest critiques leveled at them: a lack of connectivity between programming and the needs of learners and the labor market. These credentials are a vital driver of the future success and long-term viability of institutions, and also for aligning higher education programming with the needs of learners and the marketplace.
Focused on the holistic development and delivery of university credentials that address learner and workforce needs, the Credential Innovation Network seeks proposals that advance quality standards, policy, and best practices in the area of credential innovation.
Presentations involving multiple organizations and international partners, as well as content which may be scaled or optimized by attendees from a wide range of institutions and credit-bearing scenarios are strongly encouraged.
Proposals for this track may include (but are not limited to) the following topics:
Best practices and emerging trends related to non-degree or non-credit credentials
Case studies which spotlight exchanges of ideas, programs, services, and initiatives that expand knowledge regarding new, innovative, and entrepreneurial programs
Examples of externally focused professional and online divisions and units at post-secondary institutions which advance credential innovation
Alignment of programming and faculty expertise with workforce and labor market needs
Issues of accreditation and the development of non-credit to credit pathways
Case studies which focus on helping learners translate competencies to employers
Evaluations of platforms related to microcredentialing and learning and employment records
Budget models, examples of navigating financial aid
Innovations in policy designed to support credential innovation
Faculty advocacy, development, empowerment
Internal and external partnerships designed to expand access/scale digital credentials
Learn more about the Credential Innovation Network.