Rethinking Open Badges and Embracing Open Recognition

Open Badges have quickly becoming the de facto way of showcasing achievements and skills. But is their true potential being fully realised? Here's a look at the three approaches shaping the way we perceive Open Badges today:

1. Badge as an incentive: In the corporate world, Open Badges are often seen as a tool to incentivise learning or engagement. For instance, a tech company may offer badges for completing a coding course, subtly tying the badge to their brand. It's a classic case of a carrot-and-stick scenario – a simple yet effective method of motivation for the younger generation.
2. Badge within existing frameworks: Organisations often award badges based on pre-established frameworks. Take the EU's DigComp, for instance, which validates digital competencies. It's a well-structured approach but tends to exclude the informal or unorthodox learning paths one might embark on.
3. Badge with Open Recognition: Here's where it gets exciting. Open Recognition, a third approach, recognises skills and learning without being tied down to a pre-existing framework. For example, let's say you have been honing your leadership skills by managing a team of volunteers for a community project. There's no specific course or test, but with Open Recognition, your development still gets the acknowledgement it deserves.

The real power of Open Badges lies not in the glitz of the badge itself, but in this concept of Open Recognition. It’s about validating diverse learning journeys and appreciating the myriad skills acquired in life's classroom.

Instead of viewing badges as rewards or marketing tools, let's start recognising them for what they truly are: a testament to the ceaseless journey of learning.

Let's strive for Open Recognition – where learning in all its forms, traditional or not, is acknowledged and celebrated. Because, after all, aren't we all lifelong learners?