If you want to know more about a low-carbon economy, you can go to school and its free - Keira Miller, CJWW

Canadians looking to learn more about biomass and the transition to a low-carbon economy can do so, for free, through Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Ann Reinhart with Sask. Polytechnic says the institute has partnered with Quick Train Canada to provide four, free, online micro-credentials. “In the biomass sector, it’s preparing for that clean energy sector for the future. Here, there’re those four free micro-credentials that are all focused on biomass. There is biomass production, handling, storage, and supply chain distribution,” she explains. They each take about 15 hours to complete and are perfect for those who have a busy lifestyle, but still love to learn.

https://www.cjwwradio.com/2024/02/19/if-you-want-to-know-more-about-a-low-carbon-economy-you-can-go-to-school-and-its-free/

College of New Caledonia seeks input on food security - Yahoo!

“Everyone needs to eat. In a world facing climate change and growing food insecurity, we need to adapt and be part of the solution to meet that critical need. This research study is one of the ways CNC is working with partners to better understand a community need so we can contribute to solutions,” said Dr. Chad Thompson, CNC’s academic vice president. Other goals of the study are to understand residents' view on local food culture, provide a one-day local crop cultivation workshop at CNC's campus, and use the findings to inform future coursework and micro-credentials at the college. The college also intends to reach to local community food partners to involve them with the study and workshop.

https://ca.news.yahoo.com/cnc-seeks-input-food-security-224406283.html

The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute Announces New Investment from Chan Zuckerberg Initiative - Yahoo! Finance

Transformational $1.2 million grant to help expand HBCU ELI's curriculum, which offers micro-credentials and prepares executives to assume leadership positions in higher education. The grant includes funding to expand ELI's curriculum, which offers micro-credentials and prepares executives to assume leadership positions in higher education. HBCU ELI stands as a pioneering initiative, committed to nurturing and empowering the next generation of leaders at over 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative was a founding sponsor of the ELI program when it first launched in 2021. The program identifies and develops the most qualified candidates to fill vital HBCU presidencies and other executive leadership positions. To date, ELI has convened a community of 85 Fellows, comprised of professionals representing both public and private sectors. Each participated in ELI's unique professional development program, which includes 13 core competencies.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hbcu-executive-leadership-institute-announces-153000096.html

Parents and Educators Are Somewhat Aware of Non-Degree Pathways for Students, But Many Want to Learn More - Arrman Kyaw, Diverse Education

Less than a third of parents surveyed (28%) said that they would be disappointed if their child did not pursue college after high school, according to a new report commissioned by American Student Assistance (ASA) and Jobs for the Future (JFF). "Beyond Degrees" focuses on investigating people’s views and ideas of non-degree pathways, defined in this context as “non-degree-bearing education-to-career options,” such as apprenticeships, bootcamps, industry certifications, certificate programs, and occupation licenses. Though some of these pathways can ultimately add up to degrees, it is not a requirement for pathways to do so.

https://www.diverseeducation.com/student-issues/article/15663650/report-parents-and-educators-are-somewhat-aware-of-nondegree-pathways-for-students-but-many-want-to-learn-more

Eastern develops cyber intelligence program - Trent Montgomery, Hampshire Review

Starting this fall, Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College will begin offering a cyber intelligence program with options to earn a two-year degree, one-year academic certificate and two micro-credentials in cyber intelligence. All courses in the program including general education can be taken online which is conducive to individuals interested in pursuing a career in cyber intelligence while working and maintaining a household. The program will also be offered in area high schools where students who complete four of the core cyber intelligence courses can earn a micro-credential in cybersecurity.

https://www.hampshirereview.com/news/article_2f3f9266-cb41-11ee-9af9-9b8e7892151a.html

The Value of a Degree vs. Micro-credentials in Higher Education - Elmhurst University

While degrees have undeniable merits, the educational landscape has evolved to accommodate more flexible and targeted learning options. Micro-credentials, also known as digital badges or certificates, offer a more focused and efficient approach to skill acquisition. These short-term, specialized programs are designed to address specific industry needs and provide practical skills for immediate application. Ultimately, the decision between pursuing a degree or opting for micro-credentials depends on individual goals, circumstances and preferences. While micro-credentials can give you a quick boost in your skill set, a degree may be the better option to set you up for a career. According to the Wall Street Journal, it’s up to the university to call out that distinction.

https://www.elmhurst.edu/blog/the-value-of-a-degree-vs-micro-credentials-in-higher-education/

Three Steps to Cultivating Skilled Workforces Through Apprenticeships - CSR WIRE

Apprenticeships create and maintain a viable labor source to sustain current and future business demands. Previously very union-focused, apprenticeship programs are now growing into open markets as well and usually span between two and four years to complete. These programs aim to teach workers additional skills to move into positions they weren’t previously qualified for, a concept referred to as “upskilling.” Apprenticeship programs usually are designed to teach specific knowledge and skills required to fill open positions in a local market.

https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/794471-three-steps-cultivating-skilled-workforces-through-apprenticeships

National Apprenticeship Week 2024: Skills For Life - Jenny Taylorm CSR

“Skills for Life” is both an inspirational and very appropriate theme for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week. The half-life of skills is shrinking making continuous learning essential. In this article, Jenny explains how apprenticeships can help individuals and organisations fill the growing skills gap. Skills for Life” is a very inspirational theme for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week. “It all starts with skills” is the strapline and what an interesting one to choose, as opposed to “it all starts with qualifications or exam results”. The campaign aims to inspire individuals and businesses to make the most of their potential. This is very much needed, as according to the World Economic Forum, closing the global skills gap could add US$11.5 trillion to global GDP by 2028, and education and training systems need to keep pace with market demands. Companies estimate that 50% of all employees will need reskilling.

https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/794536-national-apprenticeship-week-2024-skills-life

Hutto ISD launches teacher apprenticeship program Fall 2024, first in Austin area by Stephanie Becerra - CBS Austin

Hutto ISD announced Friday a new program to invest in future teachers for the school district. It's launching a teacher apprenticeship program in Fall 2024 that will give aspiring educators hands-on experience in classrooms. “This unique program will offer a community-based solution to our local teacher shortage by providing a supportive and personalized pathway for prospective teachers who are current Hutto ISD employees or who become Hutto ISD employees,” said Dr. Cara Malone, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources.

https://cbsaustin.com/news/local/hutto-isd-launches-teacher-apprenticeship-program-fall-2024-first-in-austin-area

State Auditor Allison Ball opens application period for paid summer internship program for college students - Northern Kentucky Tribune

Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts Allison Ball announced the application period has now opened for participation in its annual paid Summer Internship Program for college students. This internship offers students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in governmental auditing and hands-on learning opportunities in ensuring accountability and transparency in government. In addition to the nuts and bolts of preparing an intern to do audit work, the program will also focus on public service in government, including an emphasis on free market principles, limited government, and the constitution. "Our office strives to attract the best talent to support our annual 600 scheduled audits, alongside special examinations covering a wide range of areas,” Ball said. “This summer internship program can give students valuable insights to launch their accounting careers. If you are a college student interested in government and accounting, I encourage you to apply.”

https://nkytribune.com/2024/02/state-auditor-allison-ball-opens-application-period-for-paid-summer-internship-program-for-college-students/

N.Y. Gov. Hochul funds internship for thousands of state’s students - Stanten Island Live

Thousands of New York college students will receive invaluable workplace experience thanks to nearly $10 million in funding from the state. Earlier this week, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that State University of New York (SUNY) campuses will use that funding to provide 3,000 students with internships and other experiential learning opportunities before graduation, improving their chances of landing a job in their desired fields.

https://www.silive.com/news/2024/02/ny-gov-hochul-funds-internship-for-thousands-of-states-students.html

SUNY school offers programs eligible for TAP (Tuition Assistance Program) - Post Star

SUNY Adirondack is proud to offer several short-term programs that Gov. Kathy Hochul announced are eligible for New York’s Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). “This is an exciting opportunity for people who want to improve their skills to secure jobs in high-demand, growing fields,” said Kristine D. Duffy, Ed.D., president of SUNY Adirondack. “TAP funding for these workforce development opportunities can help create a pathway to advance careers or change fields.” Beginning this semester, students who qualify for TAP can now use the funds toward microcredentials — a series of courses that, upon completion, indicate competence in a skillset; those courses can be used toward a degree program but also stand alone.

https://poststar.com/news/local/education/suny-school-offers-programs-eligible-for-tap/article_68be6bbe-c765-11ee-87c1-9f9cc2e5d9fb.html

Executive Education Transforms: Merging Digital Progress and Human Connections - Aqsa Younas Rana, Breaking News Network

Executive education is evolving, combining digital technology and human connection to meet the demands of lifelong learning, micro-credentials, and AI-powered solutions. Learn about the balanced approach organizations need to thrive in this new era of learning and development.In the rapidly changing world of executive education, traditional university-based programs have given way to a diverse market catering to evolving learning needs and preferences. This shift began in the post-World War II era when universities started offering non-degree management courses, a model that remained dominant until the 1990s. Since then, the industry has witnessed significant transformations driven by digital technology and changing learner needs.

https://bnnbreaking.com/finance-nav/business/executive-education-transforms-merging-digital-progress-and-human-connections

EPISODE 136: JACK SUESS Technology Leaders and the Future of Microcredentialing - Illumination by Modern Campus Logo

With higher education shifting towards flexible learning, the significance of microcredentials has never been greater. But achieving transformative impact requires tech leaders' involvement in operational decision-making. On this episode, Jack Suess, Vice President of IT and CIO at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, discusses how microcredentials can help change how people think about the value of higher education, and the need for tech leaders to think about what it will take to support microcredentials at scale.

https://moderncampus.com/podcast/episode-onehundredthirtysix.html

Assessing Quality of Microcredentials Is Difficult - Kathryn Palmer, Inside Higher Ed

Most high school educators recognize the value of microcredentials, but a dearth of available data on outcomes can make them hesitant to recommend nondegree pathways to students. “There’s still this information void that’s happening,” said Susan Acevedo-Moyer, co-author of the report and director of JFF’s Multiple Pathways Initiative. “Learners want to know from their parents what these options are. And the parents are actually relying on the educators to tell the learners about their options. It was interesting to see this dynamic of an ecosystem where parents have trust in educators to help their learners make viable decisions, but we know that’s not happening.”

https://www.insidehighered.com/news/tech-innovation/teaching-learning/2024/02/06/assessing-quality-microcredentials-difficult

Micro-credentials, the next chapter in higher education - Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, the Hindu

Higher education institutes (HEIs) in India must play a much more active role in ensuring that students become employable by connecting them with the careers and job opportunities of tomorrow. This is because there is a gap between the knowledge that students acquire in HEIs and the knowledge they must have in order to become employable. Micro-credentials are emerging as a disruptive way of bridging this gap to acquire ‘just-in-time’ modern skills and competencies. They are evolving as the new normal in higher education due to their flexibility, accessibility, and advantages. It must be noted that hiring practices are also changing, with a tendency to prioritise skills over degrees, and the endorsement of micro-credentials is on the rise.

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/micro-credentials-the-next-chapter-in-higher-education/article67811572.ece

Brookings Internships

Want to kick off your professional career in a meaningful way? Brookings provides paid internships to nearly 150 degree-seeking students annually, with cohorts each spring, summer, and fall. Internships are available in our five research programs (Governance Studies, Economic Studies, Foreign Policy, Global Economy and Development, and Brookings Metro) and in our business units (e.g., communications, finance, human resources). Review Brookings Internship Program Details to learn more about the program, timelines, and expectations.

https://www.brookings.edu/careers/internships/

Challenges of International Credential Evaluation - Credentials Unscripted, Parchment

Jasmin Saidi-Kuehnert, President & CEO of Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute (ACEI) joins us to discuss the challenges evaluating credentials from across the globe. We discuss the laborious process for understanding educational systems around the world, the role the credential evaluation community plays, and offer up some solutions to make the international exchange of credentials easier.

https://www.parchment.com/blog/the-challenges-of-international-credential-evaluation/

YU Relaunches Online Certificate Program YU Global - Josh Makovsky, Yeshiva University Commentator

YU Vice President for Global Initiatives and Strategy Danielle Wozniak, who led the development of the new program, told The Commentator. “[W]e will constantly be watching the job market to see where demand is, that is, to see what professions are growing and how we can train people for them,” Wozniak told The Commentator. “We also work with business and industry to see what positions they are trying to fill and create trainings to prepare workers for those markets. And we work with recruiters to see what positions they are looking to fill and refer our learners to them for job placement.” 

https://yucommentator.org/2024/01/yu-relaunches-online-certificate-program-yu-global/

Why unpaid internships put some students at a disadvantage - Annika Hopkins, Biz Women

Getting accepted into college is a feat unto itself, so it’s easy for college freshmen to feel at ease going into their first year. They may forget to think about how they will spend their time outside of the classroom for the next four years because of their focus on their academic studies. But the funny thing is, that academic focus may just come back to haunt you: Professional recruiters and hiring companies are no longer just looking for candidates with impressive GPAs and degree titles. Today, it’s all about the experience and outside of the classroom skills that an applicant brings to the table.

https://www.bizjournals.com/bizwomen/news/profiles-strategies/2024/01/unpaid-internships-disadvantage.html?page=all

Four in 10 College Students Have Had Internship Experience - STEPHANIE MARKEN AND DREW CURTIS, Gallup

Roughly four in 10 currently enrolled college students nationally, 41%, have had an internship while pursuing their bachelor’s degree, according to newly released data from Gallup. Reports of internship participation are lower among first-generation college students whose parents have not completed a degree (27%) and among students enrolled at public colleges and universities (36%) compared with their counterparts. At the same time, internship rates are similar among different demographic subgroups of the currently enrolled student population, with higher rates among Hispanic, White and male students.

https://www.gallup.com/education/509468/four-college-students-internship-experience.aspx