‘Micro-learning varies from online courses to study packages’ There is a growing demand from students and employers for smaller, just in time and just enough stackable units of learning. ECIU University is ready to fill that gap and offers a wide range of micro-learning opportunities. Henri Pirkkalainen and Mark Brown talk about micro-credentials and flexible learning modules. What are ECIU learning modules and micro-credentials? Pirkkalainen: ‘The modules will engage students in challenges that range from regional to international societal issues. They work together with other students, researchers, industry leaders and people working in the community to overcome these critical issues.’ Brown: ‘Students have flexibility to select relevant micro-learning modules based on their own needs. For example, during the challenge a group of learners will find out that they lack certain knowledge or skills to solve the challenge. They will be given an opportunity to take micro-learning modules related to the challenge they are working on. Microlearning offerings will range from online courses to study packages, to summer schools, to courses from industry. What is the link to challenge-based education? Pirkkalainen: ‘The learning modules will be designed with a thematic focus on the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals, with a specific emphasis on Sustainable Cities and Communities. Achieving this requires a highly interdisciplinary approach
26
ECIU MAGAZINE
drawing on contemporary pedagogies. For this reason, ECIU University will offer its students modules from various areas ranging from engineering and ICT to management. Challenge-based learning will be a “signature pedagogy” underpinning the learning experience of many ECIU University modules.’ Brown: ‘In adopting this CBL approach many of the modules will flip traditional teaching methods by actively engaging learners in solving real problems. In some cases, ECIU University learners will join other students from different parts of Europe to work together on a challenge that seeks to develop solutions for both public and private sector.’
Mark Brown Director at National Institute for Digital Learning, Dublin City University
What are the main strengths of micro-credentials? Pirkkalainen: ‘Students will have improved access and control over their own learning outcomes and they will have more flexibility to develop personalized learning pathways.’ Brown: ‘Also, the ECIU University will play an important role in contributing to wider discussions across Europe to help further develop and standardise the rapidly emerging micro-credential movement.’
Henri Pirkkalainen Associate Professor at Information and Knowledge Management Unit, Tampere University
