Micro-credential FAQ’s
What is the academic rigor of a micro-credential? Accordion Closed
Micro-credentials go through the same academic process as all other degree programs at NAU.
What is the difference between credit and non-credit Micro-credentials? Accordion Closed
| Credits | Learning Management System (LMS) | Can they be included in a degree plan? | How is it represented? |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit | 1-12 credits | Bb Learn | Yes | NAU Academic Transcript & Badge |
| Non-credit | No Credit | Bb Learn Lifter for registration and payment | They can be converted to a degree plan. | Non-academic Transcript & Badge |
What is the difference between a learning objective and a competency? Accordion Closed
Learning objectives are specific to a course and describe what the learner should know at the end of a learning period. Competencies define the applied skills and knowledge that enable people to successfully perform job requirements.
Skills + Knowledge + Abilities = Competencies
Example:
Learning Objectives: Students will be able to
-
- Locate the drain plug,
- Determine oil weight,
- Add the right amount of oil,
- Change filter
Competency:
-
- Correctly change the oil in under 10 minutes
What is the difference between a hard skill, soft skill and common skill? Accordion Closed
Hard skills
A specific, learnable, measurable, often industry- or occupation-specific abilities related to a position.
Examples – A hard skill for nurses might be CPR, and a hard skill for a data analyst might be JavaScript.
Soft skills
A personal attribute that supports situational awareness and enhances an individual’s ability to get a job done. They are broadly applicable across job titles and industries.
Examples – oral or written communication skills; interpersonal skills; teamwork.
Common skills
A skill that can be self-taught and may not necessitate a certain completed level of education. They are essential in many industries and occupations.
Examples – problem-solving or project management.
Can a bachelor’s or master’s degree also include a digital badge? Accordion Closed
Yes, an academic unit can review an already established program to ensure learning outcomes, competencies and assessment all align to a micro-credential and digital badge.
What is the difference between a Workforce and Market Analysis and an environmental scan? Accordion Closed
Workforce and Market Analysis Reports are comprehensive in nature and include data such as a program review, industry outlook, competitive analysis and recommendations for programming. An Environmental scan is a shorter report that helps academic units survey program competitors, target markets, price points and new innovations for programming.