There are currently no clear and consistent distinctions for micros and short courses across the sector. The National Microcredential Framework provides high level parameters but covers a broad range of options. At Charles Sturt we are defining microcredentials and short courses into four key types. These types meet different learner needs and have different criteria and regulatory requirements.
A micro-subject is a smaller unit of learning than the typical eight-credit point subject. A micro-subject is a credit-bearing award offering included within a course structure and may or may not be stacked towards larger units of accreditation. A micro-subject reflects the academic standards of the specified course/s; is aligned to an AQF level; and the volume of learning is consistent with the amount of credit earned in the intended course. People will be enrolled as students in this type of subject.
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A stand-alone microcredential is an assessable, outcome-based non-award offering that is shorter than an AQF award qualification. Microcredentials are usually driven by industry needs, provide recognition of achievement and attest to specific knowledge or skill competencies with defined learning outcomes. A stand-alone micro-credential can be accepted for credit by an institution or organisation or be an attestation for industry.
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Outcome-based non-award short form learning activities or series of learning activities that have no relationship to accredited Charles Sturt award courses. Short courses are usually less in depth and not as substantial as a stand-alone microcredential, address a skills gap in industry or are undertaken to support work, career, lifelong learning and/or personal goals. A short course is not usually intended to be used as recognition of prior learning for credit into a degree, but may support professional accreditation or compliance requirements for an industry partner.
Short courses involve curated content that is packaged, promoted, and delivered with a defined set of learning goals.
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Training events, webinars, workshops or group events.
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| Definition | ||
| Student | A person who is or was enrolled in, or seeking admission to, a course or subject offered by the University it includes a candidate for a higher degree by research award, as well as students enrolled in online or on-campus study modes. | |
| Participant | An attendee of a stand-alone micro-credential, short course, or professional development activity. | |
If you are ready to progress your idea for a new micro or short course the next step is to lodge a formal request.
For micro subjects you will need to follow the usual governance approval process as for any award course or subject. Once approved, log a Cherwell request to the Design, Development and Review team this is done through Cherwell and will be supported by the Design, Development and Review team.
For a standalone microcredential or short course, complete a proposal, secure your required workload allocation, and get approval from your Head of School or equivalent unit head.
For a Professional Development event or webinar these are usually designed by the relevant Academic or other product owner. If wanting to use BrightSpace micro site to facilitate registration and payment, email microcredentials@csu.edu.au. A Cherwell request can be logged to get general Design, Development and Review support for the development of learning resources if required.
At Charles Sturt we are focussed on providing high quality viable skills focussed micros and short courses that address industry needs and are appealing and enjoyable for participants. If you have identified an opportunity to develop a micro credential or short course that aligns to our strategic direction, the Division of Learning and Teaching can support you. As the Academic Lead you will also need to commit some workload to contribute to this and have content available to use.
A "student" is a person who is or was enrolled in, or seeking admission to, a course or subject offered by the University it includes a candidate for a higher degree by research award, as well as students enrolled in online or on-campus study modes.
A "participant" is an attendee of a stand-alone micro-credential, short course, or professional development activity.
For more information about microcredentials and short courses, please email the team at microcredentials@csu.edu.au