The Aurora Institute defines next gen credentials as a modern type of credential that more accurately and transparently reports the knowledge, skills, and competencies attained by individuals. They are often digital. Over time, these credentials are designed to communicate what individuals know and what skills they have attained in a lifelong Learner Education and Employment Record (LER). The learner record may be thought of as the “backpack” for a learner, with next gen credentials the verified attestations of knowledge, skills, academic credits, and competencies they can show to employers and education and training providers.