The student experience of technology-focused micro-credentials as part of a larger learning journey

This research-in-progress article discusses the results of an interview study to investigate the outcomes for a group of mature postgraduate students who completed at least one technology-focused micro-credential as part of a larger set of qualifications. The results suggest that these micro-credentials provide a valuable complement to other types of study, either as part of a formal pathway or as an informal combination of study choices. In particular, they provide a platform for rapid updating in technology, a confidence-building experience for mature learners, and a sound platform for enrolment in larger qualifications. Some of the issues raised included the difficulty of providing a consistent micro-credential experience across diverse domains of practice, ensuring that there is sufficient institutional and peer support for mature students, and designing small, focused courses that still provide sufficient depth and breadth to enable students to apply their learning in their practice contexts.