Training Programme on Micro-credentials for Teachers’ Professional Development: a Collaborative European Initiative
The Cred4Teach project held an engaging training programme in Lisbon, with 15 institutions from seven European countries to discuss a pressing topic: the professional development of teachers through the conceptualisation and accreditation of micro-credentials. This initiative is particularly focused on improving opportunities for educators in Albania, Montenegro and Ukraine.
The training programme, hosted by Universidade Aberta (UAb) from February 5th to 7th, 2024, included a comprehensive schedule aimed at exploring the potential of micro-credentials to transform teacher professional development. It also served as a platform for fostering collaboration among academic experts and stakeholders from diverse educational contexts.
Day One: setting the scene
The programme began at the historic Palácio Ceia, with a warm welcome from key figures including UAb’s Rector, Professor Carla Padrel, the project coordinator, Professor Sasha Lord and a representative from the Ukraine Embassy. The morning’s discussions set the tone for the event, highlighting the significance of international collaboration in addressing the professional development needs of teachers, particularly in regions facing unique educational challenges.
Following a roundtable discussion that explored participants’ expectations, the afternoon featured a guided tour of the Palácio Ceia, including a visit to UAb’s state-of-the-art recording studio. This activity provided participants with insights into UAb’s technological resources, enhancing the participants understanding of how digital tools can support innovative learning solutions.
Day Two: discussing the contexts and challenges
The second day moved to UAb’s Almirante Barroso campus, focusing on the professional development landscape across Europe. Professors Ana Mouraz and Ana Nobre discussed the challenges faced by primary and secondary teachers, while Professor Isabel Huet addressed higher education teachers’ needs.
The subsequent group discussions offered participants an opportunity to analyse the current scenarios of continuous professional development (CPD) in their respective countries. The dialogue centered on mandatory CPD requirements, the role of higher education institutions in CPD delivery, and how micro-credentials can bridge gaps in teacher development, particularly in Albania, Montenegro and Ukraine.
Afternoon sessions delved into regional perspectives on micro-credentials, with insights from Dr. Alessandra Antonaci of EADTU, Professor Hakan Aydin from Turkey, and Professors Diogo Casa Nova and Sasha Lord, representing Portugal and Germany, respectively. These sessions underscored the diverse strategies for micro-credential accreditation across Europe and beyond.
Day Three: accreditation and future directions
The final day focused on the technical aspects of accreditation. Representatives from Portugal’s Agency for Assessment and Accreditation of Higher Education (A3ES) provided a detailed overview of accreditation processes within Europe and Portugal. This was followed by group discussions where participants worked collaboratively to design templates and frameworks for implementing and accrediting micro-credentials in their own countries.
The day concluded with presentations of group outcomes and a wrap-up session led by Professors Sasha Lord and Ana Mouraz, summarising key insights and paving the way for future steps.
A Collaborative Step Forward
The Cred4Teach training programme was a successul event, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to drive innovation in teacher professional development. By focusing on the accreditation of micro-credentials, the initiative aimed to create sustainable pathways for continuous professional growth, ultimately enhancing educational standards in Albania, Montenegro and Ukraine.
The Portuguese UAb team coordinator: Professor Isabel Huet
The UAb team: Professors Glória Bastos, Ana Mouraz, Ana Nobre, Diogo Casa Nova and Dr Ana Paula Coelho
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