Micro-Credentials: A Flexible Path for Students, but Accountability Gaps Remain

by | Oct 24, 2024 | Underserved Communities

Micro-Credentials: A Flexible Path for Students, but Accountability Gaps Remain

Key takeaway

Sara Weissman from Inside Higher Ed discusses how micro-credentials are growing in popularity because they offer students a quicker, more affordable path to gaining job-ready skills compared to traditional degrees. These short-term programs can range from three weeks to a year and focus on specific skills like IT, healthcare, and even emotional intelligence.

Why it matters

Many students, especially those from underserved communities, find micro-credentials appealing as they juggle work, family, and education. These programs offer an accessible alternative for those who can’t commit to longer degree programs. The ability to “stack” credentials towards a degree is a key benefit for long-term learning.

The challenge

The “wild west” nature of micro-credentials means students face transparency and accountability issues. Some programs, especially shorter ones or those offered by non-accredited institutions, lack oversight. There’s a need for clear information on program quality and long-term earning potential, particularly for students from underserved communities who are more likely to rely on them.

Looking forward

For micro-credentials to truly benefit all students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, clear pathways to further education and employment, as well as more scrutiny and oversight, will be essential.

Adapting for working learners

by | Oct 22, 2024 | Innovation, Working Learners

Adapting for working learners

In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the needs of working adult learners are becoming increasingly prominent. As traditional models of higher education adapt to accommodate this growing demographic, leaders in the field are sharing valuable insights on how to best serve these students.

Why it matters

As more adults pursue education while working, universities must adapt to meet their unique needs.

Go deeper

Key takeaways from higher education leaders highlight the importance of respecting students’ time, offering flexibility in scheduling and learning modalities, aligning credentials with employer needs, and providing short-term credentials as entry points. These insights collectively demonstrate a shift towards more adaptable and career-focused higher education models that better serve working adult learners.

The big picture

Universities are evolving to better serve working adults by prioritizing flexibility, employer partnerships, and career-relevant credentials.

Compiling Semiconductor Industry-Aligned Programs

by | Oct 21, 2024 | Innovation

Comprehensive Program Compilation Initiative

The Presidents Forum is compiling a comprehensive list of programs offered at their institutions that align with the semiconductor manufacturing industry. This effort aims to create a valuable resource that showcases the diverse range of educational opportunities available to support this critical sector. By identifying and cataloging these programs, the Presidents Forum seeks to highlight the collective expertise and capabilities of their institutions in preparing the workforce for the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry.

Collaborative Feedback Process

In the coming days, presidents and their staff will receive an email containing an initial list of programs that have been identified. We kindly request your feedback on this preliminary compilation. Your input is crucial in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the information.

Leveraging the Program List for Industry Growth

Once finalized, the Presidents Forum will publish this list of programs and utilize it in coordination with various CHIPS initiatives. This collaborative effort will not only showcase the strength of our educational offerings but also facilitate stronger connections between academia and the semiconductor industry, ultimately supporting the growth and innovation in this vital sector.

Owens, experts call for accountability in higher ed

by | Oct 18, 2024 | Policy

Owens, experts call for accountability in higher ed

Congressman Burgess Owens, Western Governors University President Scott Pulsipher, and American Enterprise Institute Senior Fellow Beth Akers say students deserve improved transparency and accountability in higher education.

Student Outcomes Prioritized

Higher education institutions should be held accountable for the economic value they provide to students, according to experts. Key metrics suggested include completion rates, post-graduation employment, and return on investment.

Congressman Owens advocated for a free market approach, stating, “We have to start thinking quite differently…Let’s bring the innovators to the plate.”

Transparency and Accountability Measures

Dr. Akers highlighted a significant barrier to transparency: “Lifting [the ban on merging IRS and Department of Education data], which is part of the legislation that we’re seeing today in both the House and the Senate, would enable us to have really the perfect data to hold institutions accountable.”

President Pulsipher emphasized the need for consistent, program-level accountability measures across all institutions. He argued that current regulations often hinder innovation by forcing conformity to traditional models instead of focusing on outcomes.

The experts agreed that while access for disadvantaged populations is crucial, it shouldn’t compromise accountability. Dr. Akers noted, “Giving someone access to enrollment at an institution with poor outcomes is not doing them any favors.”

Legislative Reform Needed

As new legislation is considered, the experts stress that meaningful reform in higher education accountability should be central. They call for policies that prioritize student outcomes, encourage innovation, and increase transparency for both students and taxpayers.