eCampusOntario launches AI-enabled Micro-Credential Portal tool to Help Learners Address Skills Gaps - CNW Group

Today at the 2024 Micro-Credential Forum eCampusOntario launched the proof of principle for a new AI-enabled tool designed to help learners address skills gaps with personalized educational pathway recommendations. SkillsFinder.ai uses a custom GPT powered by OpenAI to help learners to better understand their skills gaps and find a micro-credential to fill these gaps. Attendees of the Forum were able to interact with the new skillsfinder tool as part of testing the capabilities of generative AI and supporting upskilling and reskilling.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ecampusontario-launches-ai-enabled-micro-110000183.html

Micro-credentials - University at Buffalo

Micro-credentials allow you to meet your personalized learning needs by gaining knowledge and skills in areas that are relevant to your academic or professional goals. They equip you with digital badges that showcase your achievements and all it took to get there. When you complete a micro-credential program you will earn a digital badge, or a series of digital badges. A digital badge is an icon, but it is not a static image in that is click-able, and houses information, including the issuing institution, the date earned, the criteria required to earn the badge, and the evidence that shows that you have met the required criteria. Digital badges are dynamic credentials that you own, so you can decide how you want to use them. Digital badges can be put on social media sites, added as a link on your digital résumé, embedded in your e-portfolio, and more.

https://engineering.buffalo.edu/home/academics/beyond/micro-creds.html

IGI Global Halts Softcover Production, Embraces Digital Education Evolution - Nasiru Eneji Abdulrasheed, BNN

IGI Global's pivot towards digital education signifies a transformative shift in educational publishing. Discover the implications of their decision to focus on innovative learning methods through their latest publication on micro-learning and micro-credentials. In a remarkable pivot towards digital and innovative educational practices, IGI Global has announced the cessation of softcover book production. This strategic move underscores a broader industry trend towards embracing digital mediums and innovative learning methodologies. The decision is highlighted in their latest publication, 'Global Perspectives on Micro-Learning and Micro-Credentials in Higher Education,' which delves into the forefront of education technology, including chatbots, gamification, and hybrid learning models.

https://bnnbreaking.com/breaking-news/education/igi-global-halts-softcover-production-embraces-digital-education-evolution

Generative AI upskilling can help future-proof your company - Clint Boulton, CIO

More certain is that genAI’s transformative function—automating content creation—will alter how people work.  The implications to changes for knowledge workflows are staggering. Enterprises will use personalized technology skills development to drive $1 trillion in productivity gains by 2026, according to IDC research.1 This productivity bump won’t come courtesy of magic pixie dust. Organizations must educate staff on how to incorporate genAI into their daily workflows. Education starts with prompt engineering, the art and science of framing prompts that steer Large Language Models (LLMs) towards desired outputs. Eighty-seven percent of IT leaders Dell surveyed2 said they would like prompt engineering training for themselves, their teams, or both. 

https://www.cio.com/article/1309753/generative-ai-upskilling-can-help-future-proof-your-company.html

Employers don’t practice what they preach on skills-based hiring, report finds - Carolyn Crist, Higher Ed Dive

Skills-based hiring appears to be lagging behind well-meaning ambitions, with most companies not yet making changes to drop degree requirements or increase their share of workers without degrees, according to a Feb. 14 report from The Burning Glass Institute and Harvard Business School. Among companies that announced policy changes, about 45% appeared to make a change in name only and had no meaningful difference in hiring behavior, even after removing degree requirements from their postings.

https://www.highereddive.com/news/employers-failing-at-skills-based-hiring/707967/

JobReady by LearningMate Partners with Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy to Provide Industry Certification Coursework - IT News Online

"JobReady is providing our scholars an opportunity to become marketable upon graduation from high school. In addition, they earn industry certifications in high-need areas that provide them with a salary far above minimum wage. Many of our students are the first generation to attend college, and these marketable skills make it possible for them to have financial support while attending college," said Staci Weaver, Superintendent at Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy. About Legacy Prep Charter Academy. Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy seeks to facilitate educational experiences through teaching that engages, a culture that empowers, and technology that enables scholars to be college, career, and military-ready, who produce impactful outcomes. We develop and inspire innovative, critical-thinking scholars who influence our global society.

https://www.itnewsonline.com/PRNewswire/JobReady-by-LearningMate-Partners-with-Legacy-Preparatory-Charter-Academy-to-Provide-Industry-Certification-Coursework/972466

Online Learning in Medical Student Clerkship: A Survey of Student Perceptions and Future Directions - Rina Patel, et al; Cureus

The authors administered an online survey to clerkship students at the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary, Canada in spring 2022. The survey consisted of primarily Likert-style questions to explore the perceived effectiveness of various online learning strategies. Results are reported as the proportion selecting “quite effective” or “extremely effective.” The authors administered an online survey to clerkship students at the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary, Canada in spring 2022. The survey consisted of primarily Likert-style questions to explore the perceived effectiveness of various online learning strategies. Results are reported as the proportion selecting “quite effective” or “extremely effective.”

https://www.cureus.com/articles/228716-online-learning-in-medical-student-clerkship-a-survey-of-student-perceptions-and-future-directions#!/

A majority of workers are desperate to upskill, but Gen Z is more likely to head back to the classroom - BYEMMA BURLEIGH, Fortune

Reskilling has become a major obsession over the past few months, as AI upends traditional work models, and employees look for ways to prepare for the future. A majority of U.S. workers plan to upskill this year, but Gen Z is taking it one step further—they’re more likely than other generations to actually step back into the classroom to better themselves. About 41% of the Gen Z workforce plans to attend physical classes to learn new skills, a higher percentage than both Gen X and baby boomers, according to LinkedIn’s latest Workforce Confidence survey.  

https://fortune.com/2024/02/19/gen-z-upskilling-back-to-school/

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