Defined Academy
Defined's Micro-Credentials
Defined's micro-credentials are a competency-based form of certification developed and issued based upon personalized professional learning experiences that demonstrate an educator’s application of skills and knowledge to improve professional practice that supports student success.
Each Defined micro-credential serves as an assessment of a specific competency where educators apply their knowledge and skills to create a unique product, reflect, and apply their knowledge thus demonstrating their competence. Micro-credentials are completed individually and are an excellent support mechanism for ongoing skill development and sustaining PBL practices.
At Defined, we have organized micro-credentials into Stacks. Six (6) micro-credentials make up a Stack. For more detailed information contact your Defined Partnership Manager.
Format: Asynchronous. 1-2 hours/micro-credential
Participants: completed individually. Ideal for those wanting to demonstrate their PBL teaching competency.
Rate: $50/micro-credential
Essentials: Defined Learning subscription is NOT required; however it is recommended (Participants will have the option to either create their own PBL task OR utilize an existing Defined Learning task if they have purchased a subscription)
Expected Outcomes
Each micro-credential is designed to focus on a critical attribute associated with Defined Learning and Project Based Learning practices. The following outcomes will be met upon completion of each micro-credential:
-
Demonstrate competency in a specific area of educational practice associated with teacher effectiveness; and
-
Demonstrate practice and skills of educational practice through evidence and personal reflection.
Defined Digital Medallion
The Defined Digital Medallion synthesizes 10 of the most important micro-credentials that align with best classroom practices associated with PBL. Each micro-credential that makes up the Defined Digital Medallion, marked with an asterisk in the chart below, is also aligned with the essential elements of the Danielson and Marzano effective educator frameworks.
Format: Asynchronous. 10-20 hours (1-2 hours/micro-credential)
Participants: completed individually.Ideal for those wanting to demonstrate their PBL teaching competency.
Rate: $450/digital medallion
Essentials: Defined Learning subscription is NOT required; however it is recommended (Participants will have the option to either create their own PBL task OR utilize an existing Defined Learning task if they have purchased a subscription)
Expected Outcomes:
The Defined Learning Digital Medallion is designed to focus on critical attributes associated with Defined Learning and Project Based Learning practices identified by Defined. Each micro-credential within the digital medallion will address the following outcomes. Participants will:
-
demonstrate competency in a specific area of educational practice associated with teacher effectiveness; and
-
demonstrate practice and skills of educational practice through evidence and personal reflection.
Defined Custom Digital Medallions
The Custom Digital Medallion is for partners interested in creating their own Medallion and who have a specific set of skills they'd like their teams to master. Partners will select 10 Defined micro-credentials that align with their goals and Defined will create a Digital Medallion. To learn more about creating a custom Digital Medallion, contact your Defined Partnership Manager.
Format: Asynchronous. 10-20 hours (1-2 hours/micro-credential)
Particpants: completed individually. Ideal for those wanting to demonstrate their PBL teaching competency.
Rate: $450/custom digital medallion
Essentials: Defined Learning subscription is NOT required; however it is recommended (Participants will have the option to either create their own PBL task OR utilize an existing Defined Learning task if they have purchased a subscription)
Districts wishing to create their own Custom Digital Medallion may choose from a combination of up to 10 of the micro-credentials listed below.
STACKS |
MICRO-CREDENTIALS |
 |
1. Aligning to Standards 2. Infusing (5Cs, 21st Century, Workplace, SEL) Skills* 3. Designing Authentic Tasks* 4. Developing Driving Questions 5. Using GRASP to Frame a Task 6. Planning for Student Voice and Choice* |
 |
1. Purposeful Grouping 2. Providing Scaffolding* 3. Effective Facilitation/Coaching* 4. Meaningful Feedback 5. Guiding Research 6. Digital Literacy |
 |
1. Pre/Diagnostic Assessment — Finding Out 2. Formative Assessment — Checking In* 3. Summative Assessment — Making Sure* 4. Rubric Design 5. Critique and Revision* 6. Public Product |
 |
1. A Culture of Reflection* 2. Developing Self-Direction 3. Encouraging Risk-Taking 4. Creating an Environment of Sustained Inquiry* 5. Developing a Growth Mindset/Grit 6. Incorporating Social/Emotional Learning |
 |
1. Reflecting on Teaching 2. Collaborating with Colleagues 3. Leading Professional Learning 4. Creating Community Events 5. Communicating with Families 6. Growing and Developing Professionally |
Expected Outcomes:
The Defined Learning Digital Medallion is designed to focus on critical attributes associated with Defined Learning and Project Based Learning practices identified by Defined. Each micro-credential within the digital medallion will address the following outcomes. Participants will:
-
demonstrate competency in a specific area of educational practice associated with teacher effectiveness; and
-
demonstrate practice and skills of educational practice through evidence and personal reflection.
The Learning Never Ends
Despite what your students may think, teachers don’t know everything. The key to inspire deeper learning is to pass on the skills of hands-on self-education. When instructor skills and understanding grow, student skills and understanding grow as well. The connections are clear. Supporting educators is vital to a healthy learning environment.