Overview

The MICROBOL project (Microcredentials linked to the Bologna key commitments) was a 2-year effort (2020-2022) to explore whether (1) existing Bologna tools are fit for microcredentials, (2) to propose changes for adaptations on the European level and make recommendations, and (3) to create a European Framework for microcredentials in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).

The aims of the project were to:

• Link to the goals of the Erasmus+ Programme, which is the EU's program to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe. The 2021-2027 program places a strong focus on social inclusion, the green and digital transitions, and promoting young people’s participation in democratic life. The program involves the 27 Member States of the EU and 6 non-EU associated countries with 55 National Agencies responsible for the decentralized management of most of the program’s actions.
• Increase access to continuous learning for all learners, regardless of age or experience. Learners include both higher education students and those who wishing to improve their knowledge, skills, and competences.
• Fill the gap between formal education leading to traditional degrees and rapidly changing workforce needs that require new flexible ways of learning and teaching, such as short learning programs and microcredentials —that can be offered through formal or informal education and delivered via online or face-to-face courses.

The project established three Working Groups on Quality Assurance, Recognition, and Qualifications Framework and ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). National governments involved in this work were guided to include issues related to microcredentials on their policy agendas.

Outcomes

• An international consortium organized various meetings and workshops to convene governments, experts, and stakeholders to evaluate practices and policies relating to microcredentials.
• The project developed and published in March 2022, a Common Framework for Microcredentials in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). This was a culmination of 2 years of work by working groups, a Europe-wide survey, and interaction with partners in the field. The framework, a consensus on microcredentials reached to date, shows how the Bologna key commitments are applicable to microcredentials within the Quality Assurance, Recognition and Qualifications Framework and ECTS. The document provides recommendations to the three Bologna key commitments, and on topics such as the role of higher education in lifelong learning, a common standard for microcredentials, and digitalization.
• Recommendations for the European Commission’s consultation on “Microcredentials – broadening learning opportunities for lifelong learning and employability”.
• In June 2022, the Council of the European Union (EU) adopted a Recommunication on a European approach to microcredentials for lifelong learning and employability. The Recommendation seeks to support the development, implementation and recognition of microcredentials across institutions, businesses, sectors, and borders.

Partners

The Flemish Ministry of Education and Training coordinated MICROBOL in cooperation with:

• The Ministry of Education and Culture of Finland
• CIMEA of Italy (Information Centre on Academic Mobility and Equivalence)
• EUA (European University Association)
• ENQA (European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education)
• Associated partner: EQAR (European Quality Assurance Register for Higher Education)

Resources

Home - MicroBol (microcredentials.eu)

European Higher Education Area

MICROBOL Recommendations

Proposal

MICROBOL Common Framework for Micro-credentials in the EHEA

MICROBOL Framework one-pager