Update on (and ongoing validation for) Digital Badges as microcredentials

From Stephen Downes' newsletter to your screen, I present you Digital Badges Turn 10—So What? It's a thorough but quick overview on the merits of digital badging both for academic programs as well as team development within a professional working environment. Who doesn't love flair?

On a perspective with more gravitas, badges can also be seen as important step toward creating a job economy based on skills rather than more visible demographics that tend to cloud our views when making hiring decisions. 

And like a mythical sword in the stone, digital badges have just been waiting for the right hands to let them do their magic. Those of us in gatekeeping positions need to do only slightly more than stay out of the way and let badges get to work making the world a better place, where opportunities are more often matched to people based on the needs of all stakeholders, and in ways that are blind to factors such as race, gender, and last name. 

"University Libraries Digital Badge Program" by 
pennstatenews is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Unclamp that webcam! But keep the tape.

With the last year behind us, we've all had to become computer savvy quite quickly and as with everyone else, I'm forever learning new ways to use the hardware and software to my greatest advantage and with the most security in mind.

Here's a great rationale for why even Bill Gates knows it's a good idea to keep your webcam covered and your wifi disabled when not using those specific features. 

But some folks mistakenly think that a paper clamp or even a clamp designed especially for monitors or laptops would be even safer (less likely to fall off).

However, this is one of those times when going low tech is the safest option all-around! Clamps and mounts that rely on ANY amount of pressure to stay fixed can damage the edge of the monitor or laptop display, especially over time. It's not apparent until it's too late. Stick with the soft touch of a bent business card you can slide back and forth, or a post-it. Washi tape works great too, if you'd like a designer feel with no residue!

If you need tips for staying safe online, email Email the team for assistance and advice. 

"VPN & Internet Security on Your Computer for Online Privacy" by 
mikemacmarketing is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Rethinking Assessment: Food for Thought

 

Ultimate Guide to Google Jamboard (FREE TOOL integrated into Google Drive)

 Jamboard is a fantastic free Google-based teaching tool that includes a collaborative, interactive whiteboard that can be shared and edited by learners. Check out this ultimate guide! ETL will be hosting a Jamboard Sandbox Series MET&L Workshop this summer. Keep an eye out!

Alternative Assessments in Digital Learning in Higher Education