Introduction to Micro-Credentials

3. What Do Moocs Have To Do With It?

Since XMoocs exploded onto the scene in 2011 they have provided an alternative method for people to learn.  An xMooc is designed to transmit information with little interaction between the teacher and learner whereas cMoocs focus on network building, interactivity and openness (Bates, 2014).

Out of the MOOC era came Coursera and Udacity – companies that provide access to Massive Open Online Courses and certification for a cost. Some must pay for access – either those that would like to receive credit or organizations that would like to provide training for their staff.

It is out of this environment that trademarked microcredential emerged. Udacity has trademarked Nano degree, Edevate has trademarked Micro Degree and EdX has trademarked MicroMasters (System.suny.edu) Coursera’s trademarked credential is “Mastertrack”.  Other commercial badging systems such as Credly & Fidelis also arrived on the scene.