LEARN 2020-01 - Prospects of Micro-credentialing in Northern Alberta

The goal of this project is to strengthen the knowledge and best practices of LEARN members to
support successful workforce development within northern Alberta communities and industries.

To achieve this goal, this project should attain the following objectives:

1. An understanding of policy and strategies in place around micro-credential programming in
Alberta, Canada and elsewhere.

2. A comprehensive understanding of how micro-credentials could be applied in a northern
context to benefit and/or support skill development for northern Alberta industries and employers.
For example, understanding delivery methods, programing costs, approval processes, transferability,
and opportunities to collaborate with employers to support skill development.

• Considerations and recommendations around the infrastructure required for post- secondary
institutions to shape and define micro-credentials, industry recognition, input and approvals, how
full load equivalents (FLEs) may be impacted/calculated, and options for transferability.

• An understanding of modalities of delivery of micro-credential programming – what would be
the best way to deliver? Opportunities/Risks?

• An understanding of associated completion costs of micro-credentials for students.

3. Identification of top potential micro-credentialing programs for northern post-secondary
institutions that can address existing and emerging in-demand jobs in northern Alberta.