Learning related to Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) is often delivered on demand using a
variety of short, non-accredited methods, for example workshops, videos, online courses, self
study. This is a pragmatic approach given that the rapid pace of change in TEL means that it is
almost impossible for qualifications to stay relevant in terms of content, level or delivery method
(House of Lords Digital Skills Committee (2014)). However each piece of learning stands
independently and it can be difficult to later remember, let alone demonstrate meaningfully for
PDR, CPD or to prospective employers.
A potential solution that is gaining traction as a means of evidencing non-accredited learning is
the use of Badges. These can be attached to a piece of learning and are aimed at transcending
a single learning context to become transferable, lifelong assets. The Open University has
identified badging as a key trend in accrediting informal learning. Collecting groups of badges
have the potential to lead to coherent ‘qualifications’. Using badges, however presents issues
about quality and portability though initiatives such as Mozilla’s Open Badge scheme are
beginning to address these challenges through the embedding metadata into badges that gives
information about content, level, issuing authority etc..
The aim of this project was to investigate the use of Digital Badges for staff development related
to TEL.TFA
