Implementation of an Elective Micro-credentialling "Badging" Program in a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

Badging or micro-credentialing programs have been used in higher education to allow students to pursue additional skills training helpful to their intended career path. These programs, overseen by faculty members and tracked using digital certification software, create an incorruptible ledger of student learning and achievement that can be shared with potential employers and providers of advanced training at the student's discretion. This teaching tip describes the implementation of a voluntary badging program for students at one veterinary college, including faculty member and student engagement in the badging program during its first year of implementation. During that year, five faculty members created seven unique badges, each with three levels of achievement (bronze, silver, and gold). During the first year, 10 badges were awarded to 8 students, and numerous other students were in the process of completing badge requirements. Students reported participating in the program to gain more skill in an area of interest and because they thought the program would be beneficial in getting a job or into an advanced training program. The majority of students participating during the program's first year reported planning to continue working on badges in the next year. An additional cohort of students who did not participate in the first year also expressed interest in starting to work on badges. The badging program allowed students to document their progress in learning skills of interest. The college intends to develop additional badges in areas of high student interest and continue research into stakeholders' opinions of the badges received.