The success of badging using MyLab IT
Pearson | May 21, 2021 in Meaningful Outcomes
by Pearson
In spring 2018, Pearson worked with Professor Mike Puopolo at Bunker Hill Community College to investigate whether the use of badging within MyLab IT is beneficial for students.
Researchers found that:
- Across four CIT courses in Spring 2018, 63% of students achieved introductory MyLab IT Microsoft Office badges.
- 93% of the students who reported receiving a badge on an end-of-semester survey also reported claiming the badge with Credly.
- 88% of student survey respondents agreed that MyLab IT badges add value, and 85% agreed that MyLab IT badges give an advantage when applying to jobs.
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Why did Professor Puopolo start using MyLab IT badging?
Puopolo was aware of badging a few years ago, but wanted to wait until it was perfected within the MyLab IT system. About a year ago, he felt the implementation was seamless and it was time to roll it out to students.
He says, “We always try and gear our curriculum to certification. Badging is the next best thing to certification, and it doesn’t cost our students anything.”
In Fall 2017, badging was made a requirement in three of the Computer Information Technology (CIT) courses.
What is digital badging?
Digital badging is a Microsoft Office credential in Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint which verifies both basic and advanced competencies through the Credly system. Once earned, a badge can be placed into a LinkedIn ePortfolio, posted on social media (Facebook, Twitter), and/or included in a resume.
Instead of just claiming familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, MyLab IT badges provide verified evidence that learners have demonstrated specific skills and competencies using Microsoft Office tools in a real project.
Implementation
Capstone Grader Projects in MyLab IT require the skills presented in an entire textbook volume — typically three or four chapters of materials — to complete. These projects are typically assigned as end-of-unit activities or cumulative assessments.
Students may earn a badge by completing a comprehensive Capstone Grader Project up to three times with a minimum score of 90%. Depending on the course, students may receive one or more introductory badges and/or an advanced badge.
What did students have to say about MyLab IT badging?
88% of student respondents agreed that MyLab IT badges add value, and 85% agreed that MyLab IT badges give an advantage when applying to jobs.
“Badges show that we have practiced and learned valuable skills. It supports our education and experience."
—Student, Bunker Hill Community College
100% of student respondents would recommend MyLab IT to other students.
Conclusion
Moving forward, Puopolo plans on incorporating the badging initiative in all introductory and advanced Office Applications courses in Fall 2018.
Puopolo is proud of their drive to make badging a part of CIT courses at Bunker Hill and concludes,
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