Micro-credentials for employers : guidelines in reskilling workforce impacted by the changes caused by disruptive technologies

Abstract

The constant change in technology is reshaping the workplace environment, forcing employers to upskill and reskill employees to meet business needs. Technology such as micro-credentials are viewed as catalysts for skills development. Therefore, this study aimed to assist employers in integrating micro-credentials when reskilling or upskilling their workforce. Two theories were adopted: the Andragogy in practice model that assisted in understanding adult learning and UTAUT2 for understanding technology adoption. Thereafter, ten participants were interviewed who had acquired skills through micro-credentials. The finding highlighted that micro-credentials could offer employees opportunities for flexible learning and learning from experts since experts in their field teach most digital credentials. The benefits of adopting micro-credentials discussed in the findings included career growth, gaining recognition across sectors, and learning work-related skills. However, the challenge of funding, quality of credentials and work-learn balance were also discussed. Thus, this study proposed a framework that will be integrated into the workplace to provide upskilling and reskilling in this digital age.