Strengthening Digital Skills through Micro-Credentials
Digitalisation has revolutionised the global labour market. Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) now support or take over tasks previously performed by humans. This shift is creating new areas of work and requires workers to have a specific set of digital and ethical skills. The ability to use new digital technologies and engage in continuous learning has become a key competence. To help workers acquire these skills, new training models need to be developed. These must be flexible and adaptable to the rapidly changing demands of the digital world.
Micro-credentials offer a flexible solution by providing learning experiences in a short period of time that impart specific skills and knowledge. In this context, the Strengthening Digital Skills through Micro-Credentials project aims to prepare students in Bangladesh, India and Vietnam for the dynamic demands of the digitalised work environment.
Aim of the project
The development of micro-credentials in artificial intelligence and data is the main objective of the project. This includes the creation of basic and specialised courses, as well as training for educators. Upon graduation, students will be able to use these digital skills to successfully position themselves in various sectors of the labour market.
In addition, networking and knowledge sharing will be promoted through learning calls and multi-stakeholder dialogues. These formats facilitate accessible and remote knowledge sharing. They address specific issues and connect a wide range of relevant stakeholders to build a sustainable, cross-border education network.
Practical realisation of the project
The focus is on developing flexible, practical courses. Implementation will take place in two phases: first, basic and specialised courses will be developed, followed by advanced courses, accompanied by extensive networking activities. The sustainable integration of micro-credentials into university curricula is ensured through collaborative workshops and targeted networking.
In the co-creative development process of the micro-credentials, HIIG is working with universities in Bangladesh, India and Vietnam. The aim is to use synergies and existing content.
Micro-credential in Artificial Intelligence
This course covers the definition and technical foundations of AI. It provides an overview of the current use of AI systems and explains how challenges such as automation bias can arise. It also highlights the importance of policy regulation and societal participation in the development of artificial intelligence.Micro-credential in data
This course examines the increasing digitalisation and collection of data in all aspects of life. It covers how data is generated, processed and used. It also focuses on the social and political negotiation processes involved. The course explores how data governance should be designed in order to promote sustainable and inclusive digitalisation.Micro-credential for university staff and educators
This course is specifically designed for administrators and educators in universities in Bangladesh, India and Vietnam. It covers the development of micro-credentials, addressing all the key steps from conception to implementation. Based on HIIG's experience and feedback from network participants, the course offers practical recommendations.
Ann-Kathrin WatollaResearch assistant: DSA research network | Micro-Credentials for the world of work
Georg von Richthofen, Dr.Senior Researcher & Project Lead: Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Society
Jörg Pohle, Dr.Head of Research Program: Actors, Data and Infrastructures
Theresa Züger, Dr.Research Group Lead: Public Interest AI | AI & Society Lab, Co-Lead: Human in the Loop
Funding and Duration
The project is a collaboration with the German Society for international Cooperation (GIZ) and will run from 1 July 2024 to 30 November 2025 on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Ann-Kathrin Watolla
Georg von Richthofen, Dr.
What are Micro-Credentials?
Micro-credentials are flexible courses that allow for the rapid acquisition of certificates that validate specific skills and knowledge. They enable targeted and rapid development of skills that are immediately applicable in the workplace. They are designed to meet the current needs of industry and technology. By focusing on concrete, practical topics, they offer a modern alternative to lengthy and rigid educational models.
Call for Applications: Autumn School in Delhi
