Micro-Credentials in Polish Higher Education: Current Landscape and Future Directions
Purpose: The purpose of the article is to identify the commitment of Polish universities to following through with the Council Recommendation on micro-credentials. It discusses several case studies of Polish universities that offer courses under the micro-credentials scheme. Additionally, we propose good practices for Polish higher education institutions, drawing on international experiences. The objective is pursued with summaries of micro-credential systems found in selected countries. Design/methodology/approach: This review article analyses the literature on the subject, projects, research reports, and legal documents. The central recommendation document for the deployment of micro-credentials in EU member states is the Council Recommendation of 22 June 2022 on a European approach to micro-credentials for lifelong learning and employability. It is also the foundation for the expansion of micro-credentials in Poland. Findings: There are only a few universities in Poland that offer courses that can be considered micro-credentials. However they are showing increasing interest in micro-qualifications and have taken steps to implement their own systems (e.g. IBE). Based on examples from countries with experience in micro-qualifications, combined with an assessment of Polish universities, we have identified some potential paths for the development of micro-qualification systems in Poland. Research limitations/implications: The presented article provides a diagnosis of the current situation of Polish universities in terms of the functioning of the micro-credential system. Information campaigns are needed because there are a number of concerns among university staff. The main concerns of universities relate to: the lack of information on the implementation of micro-qualifications, the lack of legal and organisational solutions at universities, the uncertain quality of micro-qualification certified courses. Practical implications: Based on examples from countries with experience in micro-qualifications, combined with an assessment of Polish universities, we have identified several potential paths for the development of micro-qualification systems in Poland. Social implications: Micro-credentials are emerging as the future of higher education. Polish higher education institutions also appreciate the scheme. They can serve a dual purpose by enhancing the university's portfolio and providing a counterweight to the dwindling student population resulting from demographic decline. The promotional effort is particularly pertinent to Poland because students and many university staff members are still unfamiliar with the micro-credential systems. Originality/value: In Poland, the micro-credentials system is only just beginning to be implemented by higher education institutions. Therefore, it is very important to diagnose the current situation and identify potential paths for the development of micro-credentials systems in Poland.