Research Report

NC Feasibility Study Report to the North Carolina Partnership for Micro-Credentials

Katherine McKnight
January 2021 | RTI International

This report from RTI International describes findings from a feasibility study of the North Carolina Partnership for Micro-Credentials. The partnership was created to develop a state-recognized system of competency-based micro-credentials that promotes and is integrated with a high-quality system of teacher professional learning, using micro-credentials to encourage and support the expansion of teachers’ skills. The study found excitement around micro-credentials for teacher professional learning, a need to focus on competencies that impact student learning, and the need for quality standards for micro-credentials. These findings indicate that the state will need to undergo several policy, practice, and funding shifts to ensure effective implementation of micro-credentials. This feasibility study offers insight into the steps states may need to take as they roll out a statewide system of micro-credentials for professional learning.