Micro-credentials through the eyes of employers: benefits, challenges and enablers of effectiveness

Abstract

Purpose

This study explores the perceptions of Australian employers regarding the benefits and challenges of micro-credentials within higher education and enablers of their effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach that included 11 semi-structured interviews with employers affiliated with an Australian university was used. A deductive thematic approach was employed to analyse the data.

Findings

Micro-credentials were generally seen to be beneficial for an array of people, including employees, employers, customers and communities – stakeholders in all environmental layers of micro-credentials’ ecological system. Findings also indicated that both challenges of micro-credentials and enablers of their effectiveness depended heavily on attributes of learners, employers and higher education providers. The conclusion is that, based on the evidence of this study, micro-credentials within higher education are worth trialling.

Originality/value

Although research interest in micro-credentials is growing, few empirical studies have investigated micro-credentials’ benefits, challenges and enablers of effectiveness, especially from the perspective of employers. The study carries practical and policy implications for those involved with micro-credential research and development.

Citation

Thi Ngoc Ha, N., Van Dyke, N., Spittle, M., Watt, A. and Smallridge, A. (2024), "Micro-credentials through the eyes of employers: benefits, challenges and enablers of effectiveness", Education + Training, Vol. 66 No. 7, pp. 948-963. https://doi.org/10.1108/ET-08-2023-0340