АНАЛІЗ МОЖЛИВОСТЕЙ УПРОВАДЖЕННЯ МІКРОКВАЛІФІКАЦІЇ В УКРАЇНІ ТА ІНШИХ ЄВРОПЕЙСЬКИХ КРАЇНАХ

Abstract

This paper presents the pan-European requirements for micro-credentials, that is, the formalisation of learning outcomes obtained by a person after short-term training. The main goal of the research was to explore the state of implementation and prospects for the development of micro-credentials in the professional education systems of various participating countries of the "Beyond Europe with micro-credentials" project. The main research tool was a detailed questionnaire, which allowed to collect and analyse data on existing programmes and initiatives in Serbia, Montenegro, the Republic of North Macedonia, Georgia, Armenia, and Ukraine. The results of the study testify to the presence of common trends in the development of micro-credentials, such as growing popularity of micro-credentials among employers and students of education; focus on the development of flexible and adaptive programmes that meet the needs of the labour market; use of the latest technologies in teaching and assessment. At the same time, the analysis revealed certain problems and challenges that need to be solved, in particular, the lack of a strong regulatory framework for regulating micro-credentials; insufficient financing of relevant programmes; low awareness of micro-credentials among the population and employers. Threats to the introduction of micro-credentials include the following: competition from traditional education, rapid technological changes, economic instability, non-recognition of educational documents, threat to legislative regulation, regulatory obstacles, and technological barriers. Conclusions were made about the prospects for the development of micro-credentials in the vocational education and training systems of the studied countries, as well as the need for joint efforts of governments, educational institutions, businesses, and other interested parties for the development and promotion of micro-qualifications. Based on the results of the analysis, the following is recommended, in particular: create a favourable environment for the introduction of micro-qualifications; invest in education and innovation; develop partnerships with international organisations, educational institutions, and the labour market; implement technologies and develop digital literacy; constantly update programmes of micro-qualifications.