Micro-Credential Preferences of Self-Directed Learners on Risk Analysis

Stakeholder analysis from employers, learners, and educational and training institutions is traditionally utilised for developing micro-credential designs and frameworks. However, there is a need to put emphasis on the course topic preferences and willingness to pay for micro-credentials of adult learners as customers. In addition, targeting survey respondents may not be purposive if adult learners are already not engaged and uninterested in self-directed lifelong learning. In this study, webinar registration and massive open online course feedback surveys were used to determine the course topics and registration fees for a potential micro-credential on risk analysis. A total of 2,842 survey respondents were involved in the study, which came from 486 webinar attendees and 2,351 massive open online course completers. Findings show that only 20% of all respondents are interested in enrolling in a paid micro-credential. In addition, 30% of all respondents have a neutral perspective on their willingness to pay for a micro-credential. The implication of the study indicates that the price range of micro-credentials greatly influences the interest of adult learners. Despite having a large portion of graduates of tertiary education who could pursue graduate studies, the interest in paid micro-credentials remains low. The study implies that the value proposition of micro-credentials being able to be credited to a formal degree program might not be sellable or understood by most adult learners.