Education

16 SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE The age of flexibility and inclusivity in higher education through alternative credentials and lifelong learning UM Extended Education continues to provide alternative credentials and lifelong learning A s the higher education landscape undergoes significant transforma- tion, universities, particularly the Univer- sity of Manitoba, are increasingly adopt- ing alternative credential frameworks. These frameworks cater to the growing demand for diverse and flexible higher education programs. The University of Manitoba, a pioneer in this field, with its Division of Extended Education, has been at the forefront. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes, learners require adaptable, accessible education aligned with their personal and professional goals. The University of Manitoba, a leader in Canadian education, was an early adopt- er of this trend. In 2001, it developed a non-degree taxonomy, updated in 2021 into the Certificate and Diploma frame- work, encompassing short-cycle learn- ing programs, such as micro-credentials and other non-degree offers, known as Alternative Credentials. For nearly 80 years, starting as the Eve- ning Institute in 1936, the Division has been essential in emphasizing flexible learning options. These alternative cre- dential programs, based on flexibility and adaptability, accommodate a broad range of learners' needs, offering diverse formats from modular courses to exten- sive, lifelong educational pathways. The objective is to meet the demand for up- skilling and reskilling, providing tailored options for individuals and organizations. Alternative credentials Alternative credentials, known for their adaptability, are available in various for- mats, from short-term courses to long- term learning pathways, offered through online, in-person, and hybrid modalities. This focus on creating flexible, inclusive, and equitable programming options is vital in an era where learners and orga- nizations face constraints on time and resources. These credentials, designed to authen- ticate a learner's attainment of specific skills and competencies, are recognized by educational institutions, employers, and professional organizations. They encompass workshops, seminars, open enrollment courses, and more compre- hensive programs, serving multiple pur- poses, including workforce development and civic education. Alternative credentials encompass vari- ous forms of formal recognition of learn- ing that are not associated with tradi- tional degree programs . At universities, this category includes a diversity of cre- dentials such as letters of accomplish- ment, micro-certificates, certificates, micro-diplomas, graduate micro-diplo- mas. While the Division of Extended Educa- tion's expertise lies in the development and delivery of open enrollment courses, letters of accomplishment, micro-certif- icates, and certificate programs, other faculties, schools, and colleges within the university are also actively develop- ing alternative credential programs - with a greater emphasis on diploma-type pro- gramming. This reflects the university's commitment to diverse learner needs. By embracing a broad spectrum of ed- ucational offerings, the university en- hances its ability to provide flexible, tai- lored learning experiences, catering to both the specific needs of UM students and a broader community of learners. By adopting these frameworks, universities address critical accessibility issues in higher education, providing avenues for individuals with greater diversity of life- long education options. A commitment to lifelong learning Lifelong learning, as advocated by UNESCO, is essential for overcoming global challenges and achieving the Sus- tainable Development Goals. It involves creating lifelong learning opportunities for individual fulfillment, social cohe- sion, and economic prosperity. UNESCO emphasizes inclusive lifelong learning policies and systems, developing learn- ing ecosystems benefiting everyone. The University of Manitoba's approach aligns with UNESCO's focus on citizenship ed- ucation within lifelong learning, inspiring citizens of all ages to become critical thinkers, actively shaping a democratic, peaceful, sustainable, and just society, contributing to social and knowledge mobility. The alternative credential programs de- veloped by the Division Extended Edu- cation, dating back to the early 1900s, embody lifelong learning and inclusiv- ity principles, enabling individuals and organizations to unlock their potential through relevant and accessible educa- tion. As demand for varied educational paths grows, this progressive approach will likely inspire more institutions to adopt similar institution wide strategies. NEW COURSES AND PROGRAMS FOR A NEW YEAR Our Courses Developing Machine Learning Solutions Part of our Micro-Certificate in Artificial Intelligence: Machine Learning Solutions Business Analysis IT Part of our Certificate in Business Analysis The Art and Practice of Team Leadership Part of our Certificate in Applied Management Learning For Leaders in the 21st Century: Developing Personal Leadership Part of our Certificate in Applied Management BIM Fundamentals 1 Part of our Micro-Certificate in Building Information Modeling (BIM) Management BIM Fundamentals 2 Part of our Micro-Certificate in Building Information Modeling (BIM) Management 2 New Programs Facilitating Older Adult Learning A micro-certificate including three online courses Media Literacy, Critical Thinking and Investigative Journalism New program including three online courses Register now for Winter courses UMextended.ca/programs University of Manitoba Extended Education provides alternative credentials to support your lifelong learning. 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