The time is stated in CET time format
Stine Grønvold, Vice-rector for Education, University of Inland Norway
Stephen Dobson, Conference Chair, professor II, University of Inland Norway, and Dean of the School of Education and the Arts, Central Queensland University
Stine Grønvold is Vice-Rector for Education at Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences. She will open this virtual conference and set the stage.
Stephen Dobson is a Professor II at the Centre for Lifelong Learning, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, and Dean of the School of Education and the Arts at Central Queensland University. He will chair the conference.
PART 1 - Design for inclusive and flexible learning formats
Brian Shee and Sarah Brady, University of Limerick, Ireland
Brian Shee is an Instructional Designer, and Dr. Sarah Brady is the Project Lead for MicroCred, both at the University of Limerick, Ireland.
University of Limerick has developed over 150 micro-credentials. This presentation will outline their experiences, and explore the benefits that can be created for learners by aligning inclusive learning design with inclusive learning pathways. By integrating Universal Design for Learning principles with micro-credentials, we can promote lifelong learning through flexible, accessible, and high-quality learning experiences.
Ken Purnell, Central Queensland University, Australia
Professor Ken Purnell is Head of Educational Neuroscience at Central Queensland University, Australia.
Drawing on Australia’s pioneering experience with micro-credentials, Ken will share insights from a concrete case, focusing on the development process, target audience, and delivery format. Practical lessons and strategies for designing effective micro-credentials will also be discussed.
PART 2 - Building strategies and frameworks for lifelong learning
Lily Chan, Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor of Wawasan Open University, Malaysia
Professor Lily Chan is the Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor of Wawasan Open University, Malaysia.
At Wawasan Open University (WOU), micro-credentials (MCs) are revolutionizing education by stacking into full degrees, providing unmatched flexibility for working adults and lifelong learners. By building on existing courses, acknowledging prior learning, and aligning with industry needs, WOU is shaping a future-proof education system. This presentation will explore how WOU's flexible approach supports Malaysia’s forward-thinking policies in continuing education and workforce development.
Karin Brennholm and Hilde Gaard, Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills, Norway
Karin Brennholm and Hilde Gaard are both Senior Advisors at the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills.
This post provides an overview of the status of work with micro-credentials in Norway, both at the institutional and at the governmental level.
PART 3 - Rethinking short learning formats: Challenges and opportunities
Brit Svoen and Irene Thorsplass, Centre for lifelong learning, University of Inland Norway
Associate Professor Brit Svoen and Project Manager Irene Thorsplass both work at the Centre for Lifelong Learning at University of Inland Norway.
This presentation will explore how short learning formats, including micro-credentials, can be designed to create accessible and engaging learning pathways for adult learners. Through examples, they highlight key insights on fostering motivation, providing support, and creating inclusive learning environments that inspire lifelong learning and employability.
Hedvig Skonhoft Johannesen, OsloMet, Norway
Professor Hedvig Skonhoft Johannesen at OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University.
Skonhoft Johannesen questions how short modules in lifelong learning can balance the needs of the labour market with deeper, more reflective learning processes. Drawing on her experience in continuing education and working with adult learners, she emphasises that meaningful learning requires time and reflection, and that adult education must be tailored to both learners' needs and university structures. Her talk challenges the notion of "one size fits all" in micro-credentials, exploring how we can create sustainable learning for adults through a more holistic approach.
Discussion and Q&A
Presenters and chair
Torunn Gjelsvik, Secretary General, ICDE
Torunn Gjelsvik is the Secretary General, ICDE.
Mette Villand, Director of Centre for Lifelong Learning, University of Inland Norway
Mette Villand is the Head of Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Inland Norway.
End of Conference
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