Cooperative Extension: Professional Development

What is a digital badge?

Badges tell a story. Each is embedded with data that verifies a learner’s skills and achievements in a particular course or pathway and can be shared on social media, websites and in email signatures!

What is a micro-credential?

A micro-credential is a verified credential earned when learners demonstrate what they know and are able to perform related to a specific subject. They show learners’ understanding through evidence and application.

Micro-credentials consist of stacked digital badges that offer learners a way to highlight the skills and competencies critical to success.

Why are micro-credentials important?

• Demonstrate skills in real-world settings
• Stand out to employers
• Verify competencies, beyond your transcript and resume, improving marketability
• Discoverable when shared
• Articulate one’s skill during interviews

Learn more about more badges offered through the University of Maine System.

86% of hiring managers indicate that it is “very important” that recent applicants demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world settings and only 39% think recent applicants are well-prepared to apply skills in real-world settings.*

*Hart Research Associates. Fulfilling the American Dream: Liberal Education and the Future of Work (Washington, D.C.: AAC&U, 2018)