Description
This initiative offers a platform that consolidates all learning opportunities within a specific city, region or island. By incorporating gamification elements, it recognises and validates small achievements through the awarding of microcredentials. Each participating location has its own dedicated page on the platform making it easy for users to explore and engage with the educational opportunities available in their area.
Beneficiaries
Countries
Education level and sector
Adult learning
Level of implementation / Scope
Aims of policy/initiative
The aim is to provide all platform users with the opportunity to explore a wide range of learning experiences that cater to their personal and professional interests.
By engaging with these opportunities, platform users can earn microcredentials that validate their achievements and skills. The initiative points to foster a culture of continuous learning and development, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions and enhance their competences. Additionally, the platform seeks to create an inclusive and accessible educational environment, where learning is recognised and rewarded, regardless of the user's background or starting point.
Usefulness of microcredentials:
Microcredentials are valuable as they offer a tangible recognition of the skills and knowledge acquired through various learning experiences. These digital badges can be displayed on professional profiles, such as LinkedIn, showcasing one's expertise to potential employers and peers. They provide a way to demonstrate continuous learning and commitment to personal development, which can be particularly beneficial in a competitive job market. Furthermore, microcredentials can help individuals track their progress and identify areas for further growth, making them a useful tool for career advancement and lifelong learning.
Features and types of activities implemented
In the case of Lisbon City of Learning, the Lisbon City Council has developed a platform that is accessible to the entire public across the city. This initiative is particularly beneficial for NEETs, as it helps to enhance the participants’ CVs, thereby increasing their chances of developing different skills and securing paid employment.
Types of activities implemented by this initiative:
Centralised learning offers: Consolidates all available learning opportunities in one place through the platform, making it easier for users to find and engage with educational experiences.
Recognition of small achievements: Values and acknowledges small milestones throughout the learning process, motivating participants to continue their educational journey.
Awarding microcredentials: Provides microcredentials that validate the skills and knowledge acquired, offering a tangible recognition of participants' achievements.
Portfolio creation: Enables users to create a portfolio that consolidates all their digital medals, showcasing their accomplishments and skills in a structured manner
Target group
Mentors, trainers and relevant educational institutions that primarily focus on adult education can benefit from this platform, as it is open to all. Additionally, employers who support employee professional development, non-profit organisations that promote educational resources, government agencies that fund and regulate initiatives, community groups that offer local educational opportunities can also leverage the platform to enhance their educational offerings.
Resources
Lisbon City of Learning is part of the broader Cities of Learning project, which was initially co-funded by Erasmus+ with a grant of EUR 30.000.
Lisbon City of Learning brings together more than 130 organisations from various sectors and is managed by the Lisbon City Council team.
Evaluation of the measure
The Lisbon City of Learning has demonstrated great growth, as evidenced by indicators such as the number of medals issued, the number of users, the number of published activities and the number of partners. In all these metrics, Lisbon City of Learning has consistently ranked in the top three cities, and it holds the first position in terms of the number of published activities. For more information, visit the website: https://lisbon.cityoflearning.eu/
Evidence of effectiveness of the measure
According to the project manager, microcredentials are a powerful tool for NEETs. This approach certifies not only formal education, but also other competences associated with informal and non-formal education, which are not typically recognised. By adding microcredentials to CVs, NEETs can enhance their experience and showcase a broader range of skills and achievements.
Success factors
The issuance of microcredentials and the extensive network of partners are key components of this successful practice. These elements provide all citizens with the opportunity to engage in learning experiences, validate their achievements, and enhance their skills. The collaborative efforts of various organisations ensure a diverse and inclusive educational environment, making learning accessible and rewarding for everyone.
