Creating an Open Pathway for the Next Generation of Learners - Wayne Skipper, EDUCAUSE Review

Technically, an Open Badge is a digital image file with additional, non-image data added to the file at the time of creation. The descriptive metadata includes the badge name, the issuer, the earner, and the criteria met to earn the badge. It may also include a URL associated with the issuer, a link to evidence of learning achievement, and the level of alignment to educational frameworks. Open Badges can be issued in a variety of simple ways. Typically, you enter an identifier (usually a learner's email address) into the issuing platform and the badge is sent to that identifier. Badges can also be issued in the Badgr system by scanning a QR code with a cell phone or retroactively through analysis of learner performance data captured via xAPI. With the robust new Open Pathways standard, learners can navigate learning pathways and stack badges to earn master badges, indicating progressive achievement. Perhaps more importantly, Open Pathways allows learners to discover new learning opportunities based on the credentials they already hold. https://er.educause.edu/blogs/2018/3/creating-an-open-pathway-for-the-next-generation-of-learners