The fast-paced world of micro-credentials in healthcare: a scoping review

Introduction: Short courses have long been part of the educational landscape, and the formalisation and expansion of micro-credentials have introduced opportunities and challenges. This scoping review explored key features of micro-credentials such as flexibility, and their alignment with industry needs. Methods: Four studies published between 2009 and 2022 were analysed, which covered diverse countries, health professions and research designs. Common themes include the importance of flexible delivery, particularly asynchronous learning. Content was most impactful when it was concise, relevant and focused on emerging areas, with an emphasis on transferable skills. Learners preferred micro-credentials that offered continuing professional development points, professional recognition or stackable pathways towards qualifications. Conclusion: There is a significant gap in the evidence on the design and effectiveness of micro-credentials in healthcare, and standardised definitions and evaluation frameworks are lacking. Micro-credentials have the potential to support role expansion, career progression and workforce agility, provided they are integrated into professional developmental frameworks.