How do I implement badges or microcredentialing for a course or program?

Answer

Good news, Educational Technology is implementing microcredentialing (badging) across MU campuses through Canvas.  

Microcredentials are digital certificates of learning that can be shared to social media, job sites (such as LinkedIn), or directly with prospective employers. They can be tailored to tell the story of that learner’s knowledge and skill attainment. Additionally they contain the metadata verifying what was learned. Included in every badge is a description of the badge, the criteria used to earn the badge and any skills that the badge certifies. They are verified using the OpenBadges 2.0 standard which includes information about the issuer of the badge such as their website, email, and full details.

To begin using badges, it will be helpful to familiarize yourself with badges and how they might apply to a course or program.  Badges can offered for any type of accomplishment, whether participatory, knowledge acquisition/completion, or demonstrated skills-based or competency-aligned outcomes attained.  

Those seeking to implement badges may first read through Blake Ide's framework for badge implementation (below). Next, it is encouraged that badge implementers think carefully about what badges are realistic options for initial creation, and that starting small (for activity/course/program completion) is recommended. Also important is determining who or what academic unit will serve as the issuer of the badge(s).  Typically this will be the relevant Department and the respective Chair.   

Once thoughtfully outlined, users may submit their idea(s) through the badge submission form.  Educational Technology will then begin to process the request and follow up with the submitter.  Completion pathways will then be created in Canvas and badges will be assigned as benchmarks for desired competencies or completions. 

Finally, Marcom will be notified of the design preferences mentioned in the form, who will then create them and added within Canvas by Ed TEch staff.  Requestors will then be notified when the process is complete.  

  • Last Updated May 30, 2025
  • Views 2
  • Answered By Edward Mandity

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