As industries worldwide grapple with the challenges of digital transformation and environmental sustainability, the construction sector faces unique pressures. The dual digital and green transitions are reshaping the industry, creating an urgent need for new skills and competencies. Micro-credentials have emerged as a targeted, agile solution to address these needs, providing a structured approach to skills development that can keep pace with rapid technological advancements and evolving sustainability standards.
The Green Circle project is at the forefront of this shift, aiming to develop, test, and implement a robust framework for micro-credentials in the construction sector. This initiative addresses the critical shortage of skilled labor, facilitates the integration of new personnel, and meets the increasing demand for digital skills. By leveraging the expertise of both public and private service providers, including major corporations and online learning platforms, Green Circle seeks to establish a comprehensive and adaptable training ecosystem.
Green Circle’s mission is to develop a framework to identify, develop, test, and evaluate micro-credentials to facilitate a green transition in construction.
Project Outputs:
- Comprehensive Review: Analyzing current short courses and micro-credentials in the construction sector.
- Implementation Guide: A detailed framework for rolling out micro-credentials.
- Green Skills Catalogue: An extensive inventory of skills required for the green transition.
- Micro-Credential Design Principles: Foundational principles and methodologies for creating effective micro-credentials.
- New Assessment Guidelines: Innovative guidelines to ensure the validity and reliability of micro-credentials.
These resources will be applied to develop eight specific micro-credentials for the construction sector, which will be piloted and evaluated in Germany, Greece, Portugal, and Spain.
The ultimate goal of Green Circle is to establish a sustainable model for micro-credentials focused on green transition skills to cultivate a micro-credential-based ecosystem, benefiting the construction industry and other sectors. By promoting a more skilled, adaptable, and environmentally conscious workforce, the framework supports broader economic and environmental goals. By leveraging micro-credentials, the construction industry can better navigate the challenges of digital transformation and environmental sustainability, ensuring a robust, future-ready workforce.
Author: Ana Augusta Saraiva de Menezes da Silva Dias
Green Circle Project Coordinator