The 10-Question Micro-Credential Checklist

1. Relevance

• Does this micro-credential address a specific, current or emerging industry or professional skill need? 
• Is it relevant to the professional development and skills enhancement of the target audience? 
• Is this micro-credential based on thorough market research and competitor analysis?

2. Quality

• Does this micro-credential meet the highest educational standards (how can you demonstrate this)?
• Is it recognized by employers as a learning and assessment activity that ensures those who complete it have the knowledge, skills and capabilities it purports to guarantee? 

3. Accessibility

• Is this micro-credential easy for individuals to access and complete, considering factors such as cost, delivery mode, and scheduling?  
• Is it available on-demand or does it have both varied start dates and of a short duration (days rather than weeks or months)? 

4. Flexibility

• Is this micro-credential designed to fit into the busy schedules of working professionals or employees? 
• Does it allow learners to progress at their own pace? 

5. Credibility

• Does this micro-credential build on the strong reputation and track record of the college, university, Indigenous institute or training provider in this discipline-area? 
• Does it carry the necessary accreditation and approvals for the fields of study represented?

6. Outcomes

• Does this micro-credential clearly articulate the specific skills, capabilities and knowledge to be gained upon completion? 
• Is the assessment of the knowledge, skills and capabilities legally defensible?

7. Assessment

• Does this micro-credential have robust skills or a competency-based assessment process that accurately measures the achievement of learning outcomes? 
• Does this micro-credential provide meaningful feedback to learners?

8. Alignment

• Does this micro-credential align with existing certificates, diplomas or degrees – does successful completion “count” towards a certificate, diploma or degree?

9. Return on Investment

• Does this micro-credential (or suite of micro-credentials) look like it produces a financial return on the costs of design, development, and deployment?

10. Revision Cycle

• Is there a plan to revise the micro-credential based on learner and employer feedback? 
• What is this revision cycle, and are resources in place to ensure it can take place?

These ten checkpoints are derived from a comprehensive review of the available literature. See, in particular, the resources at the Micro-credential Observatory.