What Is Digital Credentials & Badges?

Digital credentials (including digital badges and micro-credentials) are electronic records that verify a learner has achieved a specific skill, competency, or certification. Based on the Open Badges standard, they contain metadata about the issuer, criteria, evidence, and expiration. Learners can share digital credentials on LinkedIn, resumes, and portfolios. Organizations use them for professional certifications, skill verification, and continuing education tracking. Digital credentials are increasingly replacing paper certificates.