Credentials Unscripted

Higher education is at a critical cultural moment, with growing skepticism around the value of a college degree. How can postsecondary remain relevant and valuable? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Kenyatta Lovett, Principal at ESG. He shares a roadmap for delivering value in postsecondary education. We highlight ESG's excellent report, "The Great Value Shift", which illuminates how states, systems and institutions can strategically plan for meaningful change and increased impact. To read ESG's report on The Great Value Shift, visit this link - https://edstrategy.org/resource/the-great-value-shift/

Why is there a gap between the skills employers want and the skills we develop in higher education? How do we build the organizational capacity for rigorous earn-and-learn opportunities? In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Annelies Goger, Fellow from The Brookings Institution. She highlights how states are scaling earn-and-learn opportunities, the value of skills frameworks, and the promise of a blended pathways model. She advocates for more rigorous apprenticeships, internships and experiential learning opportunities. To read more on Dr. Goger's research, follow this link - https://www.brookings.edu/articles/how-us-employers-and-educators-can-build-a-more-nimble-education-system-with-multiple-paths-to-success/

What is the value of experiential learning? And, what are the experiences that really matter for learners and employers? In this episode, Beth Merenstein, Associate Vice President for Community Engagement & Experiential Learning at Central Connecticut State University, joins us to share why experiential learning can have a significant impact on institutions, learners and the broader community. 

In this episode, we are joined by Shawn VanDerziel, President & CEO of the National Association of Colleges & Employers (NACE), to discuss their report on the 2025 Job Outlook for graduates. Shawn highlights what competencies employers are looking for, where skills-based hiring is happening and how learners can best prepare themselves for the job market. To read NACE's 2025 Job Outlook report, see here - https://www.naceweb.org/docs/default-source/default-document-library/2025/publication/research-report/2025-nace-job-outlook-jan-2025.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=57d47fb0_3

How can AI improve credit mobility in higher education? In this episode, Jesse Boeding, Co-Founder of Education Assessment System, joins us to share research on AI and credit mobility. She highlights how to think about AI, why it's more than just a means to efficiency, and why leveraging AI is ultimately in the best interest of learners and institutions.

Kristen Vanselow, Assistant Vice President for Innovative Education & Partnerships at Florida Gulf Coast University joins us to share how FGCU has developed a robust microcredential program that provides flexible, competency-based opportunities that signal readiness for careers beyond traditional degrees. Kristen shares how FGCU develops programs in partnership with leading employers to address skill gaps in the workforce, contributing to the success of the regional economy. For additional resources about FGCU's microcredentialing program, see here - https://www.instructure.com/resources/videos/fgcu-power-micro-credentialsTo learn more about UPCEA, visit https://upcea.edu/

In this episode, we are joined by Marla Gunasegaram, Systemwide Learning Technology Strategist at the California State University System. She shares how they scaled digital badging across the CSU system, how they collaborate with individual institutions and why a system-wide LMS is key to their success.

The digital credentialing landscape is quickly evolving, with the explosion of microcredentials, badges and the conversation around skills. What does the next 5 years of digital credentialing look like? In this episode, we are joined by Jason Weaver, VP of Product at Instructure, to hear his point of view on what needs to happen to ensure that digital credentials can scale and create the most opportunities for those that earn them. 

How should AI fit into the college admissions process? What guidance are institutions offering prospective students? And, how can high school counselors advise their students? In this episode, we speak with Emily Pacheco, Advisor for AI in College Admissions. We talk about ethical use of AI for college admissions, the opportunities ahead and the need to establish "rules of the road" for AI. To learn more about AI in College Admissions, visit edhub.ai for more resources/events. 

Credit for Prior Learning has long been utilized by higher education to award credit for work, life or training experience. But, how can CPL be utilized amidst the growing world of short-term, non-credit credentials? In this episode, we speak with Melanie Booth, Executive Director of the Higher Learning Commission's Credential Lab, and Ian Roark, Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development & Innovation at Pima Community College, to discuss the policy and practice of making CPL a reality for different forms of credentials.