TAM Report / Jordan - Micro-credentials

GENERAL INFORMATION

TAM title: Recognition of prior learning and micro-credentials

Type of Event: Presentations and trainings

Modality: Presential

Location: German Jordanian University

Country: Jordan

Dates: 25 & 26 November 2024

Participants: Across the TAM, 80 participants from 30 organisations attended, including representatives from 23 Jordanian HEIs (public and private universities and university colleges), the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission (AQACHEI), the Ministry of Higher Education, NGOs, international organisations (UNESCO, USAID), one HERE, three NEO staff members, and the two EU experts.

THEMES COVERED

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): definitions, mechanisms, frameworks
• Micro-credentials: concepts, models, integration into HE programmes
• Flexible learning pathways and Jordan’s National Qualifications Framework
• International best practices and case studies in RPL and MC
• Institutional strategies for integrating micro-credentials
• Policy, accreditation, and quality assurance challenges
• Roadmapping and action planning for national and institutional implementation
• Identifying challenges, solutions, and next steps for the Jordanian context

KEY OUTCOMES

During the workshop, participants:

• Deepened their understanding of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) mechanisms and micro-credentials, including key concepts, processes, and international models.
• Examined international best practices and reflected on how these could inform the development of Jordan’s own RPL and micro-credential frameworks.
• Identified policy, regulatory, and accreditation gaps that need to be addressed to enable effective national implementation.
• Discussed institutional roles and responsibilities, considering how universities might integrate micro-credentials into programmes and support RPL.
• Engaged in hands-on group work to outline elements of a national roadmap and explore strategies for implementation at both institutional and system levels.
• Explored collaboration opportunities, including contributing to an Erasmus+ CBHE project proposal prepared by partner universities.

OVERVIEW

Through expert-led presentations, interactive group work, case studies, and round-table discussions, the two-day workshop examined the principles, mechanisms and international practices related to RPL and micro-credentials. Day 1 introduced the Jordanian higher education landscape, the need for flexible learning pathways, and global RPL frameworks, followed by sessions on the definition and implementation of micro-credentials with international case studies.

Day 2 focused on developing action plans and roadmaps, analysing policy and accreditation challenges, and identifying next steps at both institutional and national levels. The TAM provided structured opportunities for reflection, hands-on exercises, bilateral meetings with the experts, and collaborative problem-solving.

THE FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY

Title of the activity: National Committee to Spearhead Efforts in Integrating RPL and Micro-Credentials into Jordan's Education Framework

Dates: December 2024

Audience: The committee included representatives from key national entities, including AQACHEI, the NEO, the Technical and Vocational Development Commission, and other organisations active in RPL and micro-credentials. These participants represent the core institutions responsible for shaping Jordan’s national policy on flexible learning and lifelong learning.

Description: As a direct outcome of the TAM on Recognition of prior learning and micro-credentials, Jordan established a National Committee mandated to lead the integration of RPL and micro-credentials into the national education system. The initiative reflects strong alignment between HEREs, AQACHEI, the Ministry of Higher Education, and other national bodies, and seeks to drive a qualitative shift toward flexible learning pathways, lifelong learning, and international alignment. The committee will collaborate with stakeholders to develop policies, regulations, and implementation plans that harmonise with the Jordanian National Qualifications Framework and draw on global best practices.

ENHANCING IMPACT: PROPOSED NEXT STEPS

• Establish a clear national framework for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and micro-credentials, aligned with the national qualifications framework.
• Review and adapt legal, regulatory and accreditation procedures to support the design, delivery and recognition of RPL and micro-credential pathways.
• Build institutional and staff capacity through targeted training, awareness-raising sessions, and professional development activities.
• Strengthen collaboration among universities, policymakers, accreditation bodies and industry partners to ensure relevance and labour-market alignment.
• Develop sustainability and funding mechanisms to support mobility, programme development and long-term implementation.
• Encourage universities to prepare for more diverse learners by integrating flexible learning pathways and lifelong learning provisions.
• Support national coordination through working groups or committees and promote continued cooperation via follow-up workshops and project initiatives.

RESOURCES AND BACKGROUND MATERIAL

• Council of the European Union (2012) Council Recommendation of 20 December 2012 on the validation of non-formal and informal learning (2012/C 398/01). Official Journal of the European Union, C 398. Available at: https://www.cedefop.europa.eu/files/Council_Recommendation_on_the_validation_20_December_2012.pdf
• European Commission (2020) A European approach to micro-credentials: Output of the Micro-credentials Higher Education Consultation Group — Final Report. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union. doi: 10.2766/50302.
• Cedefop (2015) European guidelines for validating non-formal and informal learning. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union. doi: 10.2801/008370.