What Are People Saying About the Micro-Credential Initiative?

What Are People Saying about the Micro-Credential Initiative?

Collaborative teams across UMS are completing the UMS Micro-Credential Development course. Since the course was opened, we have issued over 100 Level 1 badges and teams are working through the step-by-step development process, earning their own badges along the way!

Positive comments about the UMS Micro-Credential Initiative and unifying framework were made by many Level 1 badge (External Link) earners. 

Here are other examples of what is being said. 

How do micro-credentials benefit the learner and others? 

“I appreciate how every Micro-Credential requires some kind of application of the knowledge being demonstrated. This is a great way to guarantee to employers that an individual has the skills they need to be successful.” – Pamela Hargest, Horticulture Professional/Extension Professional II

“I think this is an excellent opportunity for youth and adults to earn competencies prior to or in addition to a degree. It will help employers by offering verification of specific skills and competencies. The specific use of internships and other on the job learning will show the real world application of skills learned in these badges, and lead to the micro-credential.” – Rebecca Gray, Administrative Specialist

How does the unique UMS unifying micro-credential framework aid in the process of development? 

“I was tangentially aware of the UMS micro-credential framework before starting this course, but through this introduction I’ve truly realized the value of the UMS micro-credentialing framework. What stood out to me the most is its ability to transform existing programming into verifiable credentials for the people of Maine. It seems like a very practical and forward-thinking approach to educating the modern workforce. I especially appreciate the way in which the badges build upon one another to form the micro-credential.” – Melissa Malmstedt, Aquaculture Research and Education Program Coordinator, Industry Recruiter

“The framework provides standardization of the format and helps ensure all micro-credentials meet the same level of rigorous requirements. This is necessary for UMS micro-credentials to be valuable to all stakeholders.” – Rebecca Fisher, Program Manager – Student Research Learning Experience, Advanced Structures and Composites Center

“The Framework aligns with both my preference for backward planning, and the emphasis I put on applying new information and skills in real-world experiences.” – Valerie Smith, Coordinator, Maine’s Alternative Certification and mentoring Program

Thank you to the Level 1 badges earners for granting permission to use your quotes! 

Anyone can register for the Level 1 training through discover.maine.edu (External Link) – it’s free and takes about an hour to complete.

UMS Micro-Credential Initiative – January 2023 Newsletter