Giving Credit Where and When it is Due: Adventures in Digital Credentials and Badges

Groups not traditionally in the degree-granting realm are upending how (and by whom) credit is issued. We will look at how programs outside of higher education -- as well as some pioneering projects in the postsecondary sphere - are adopting digital credentials and badge-empowered learning. Digital badges are more nimble than their cousins: diplomas and degrees. They allow sharing of evidence of skills and knowledge acquired through a much wider range of life activity, at a more granular level, and at a pace that keeps up with individuals who are always learning - even outside the classroom. What is the real opportunity in education for badges, and how do digital badges peacefully coexist with grades, transcripts and degrees? Finkelstein will draw on first-hand experience with groups like the Smithsonian, YMCA of Greater NY, NYC Department of Education, Yale University, and EDUCAUSE itself.