NAVIGATING THE FUTURE: STUDENT EXPERIENCES WITH MICRO-CREDENTIALS AS A LEARNING TOOL

Abstract

This paper explores the UMC390 Public Expenditure micro-credential platform developed by the Institute of Continuing Education and Professional Studies (ICEPS) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UITM). As traditional higher education evolves in response to technological advancements and industry demands, micro-credentials offer a flexible approach to skill acquisition. This study presents an infographic representation of the platform’s design, including its module structure, learning activities, and assessment methods, while capturing student perceptions and measuring learning outcomes. Using a case study methodology, the research collected data from 322 students, yielding 305 valid responses. Findings reveal high levels of student satisfaction with course content and delivery, indicating that the modular design enhances engagement and motivation. Notably, all participants expressed a willingness to recommend the course, highlighting its relevance and effectiveness. The results suggest that micro-credentials can effectively complement traditional education by providing accessible, competency-based pathways for upskilling. Despite the positive outcomes, the study acknowledges limitations, such as the need for longitudinal research on the long-term impact of micro-credentials. Ultimately, this paper advocates integrating micro credentials into higher education to better align educational offerings with the evolving labour market.