At Rethinking Assessment we have a keen interest in the evolving landscape of digital badges / micro credentials, and see this form of certification as a key aspect of the recognition of learning, skills and capabilities within the digital learner profile. Rosie Clayton and Bill Lucas are delighted to be Commissioners on the RSA & UFI Digital Badging Commission which will make recommendations next year.

We plan to publish more on this topic and are excited to kick off our digital badge related blogs with this piece from Graeme Lawrie MBE, director of partnerships at ACS, who explains how digital badges are revolutionising the way achievements are recognised in education, and will be introduced at ACS this September – with plans to expand to partner schools next year. The piece was originally published here.

Unlike traditional badges, these electronic versions can be easily shared and verified online, making them an effective tool for showcasing a wide array of skills and accomplishments. Students will be able to share their successes on Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and even LinkedIn.

At the core of the digital badging initiative is the ability to document and quantify non-cognitive skills, which are crucial in today’s dynamic job market. Skills such as adaptability, communication, and leadership are often challenging to measure, but ACS has worked in partnership with Navigatr to create digital badges that provide a concrete method to assess and demonstrate these attributes.

This aligns with the goal of supporting Expected Student Learning Outcomes, showcasing how students are developing into confident individuals, caring contributors, and effective learners.  The system also quantifies the school values, too.

In September, ACS International Schools will implement this digital badging system, with plans to expand to partner schools in 2025. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to quantify non-cognitive skills, especially in experiential learning contexts, in a way that has never been done before.

By taking difficult-to-measure areas of school life and quantifying them, digital badging enables more effective evaluation and continuous improvement. Furthermore, it allows for the tracking and measurement of the effect on students from partner schools, providing verification of the impact against the theory of change and ongoing partnership strategy.

The digital badges will be linked to core set of skills that evolves with the labour market. This ensures that the skills students are developing are relevant and valuable in real-world contexts. Badges will be awarded for specific events or activities and teachers can easily upload class lists to distribute them. Students can then access and share their badges through a user-friendly platform, enhancing their online portfolios and social media presence.

To further enrich the programme, badges will be endorsed by reputable partner organisations, adding an extra layer of credibility and recognition. Imagine the Royal Philharmonic badge for musical theatre, or the Williams F1 Esports badge! These partnerships not only motivate students but also bridge the gap between education and industry, providing real-world validation of their skills.

In essence, digital badging is a forward-thinking approach that empowers students to document and share their achievements in a meaningful way. It aligns with educational outcomes, supports lifelong learning, and prepares students for future challenges by recognising and celebrating their diverse skill sets.

The introduction of digital badging in ACS International Schools marks a significant step towards modernising education and recognising a broader spectrum of student achievements. This initiative not only supports the development of essential future workplace skills but also enhances students' ability to present themselves as well-rounded individuals ready to make a positive impact in the world.

As we move forward, the expansion and continuous improvement of this programme will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our students and the educational community at large. By embracing digital badging, we are not only documenting achievements but also inspiring our students to reach their fullest potential. We are equipping them with the tools to navigate an ever-changing world confidently and compassionately, ensuring they are prepared to lead, innovate, and create a better future for all.

If you would like any more details, please feel free to contact me at glawrie@acs-schools.com.