Micro-credentials at the Higher Education – Work Interface: From Intercultural Communication to Transnational Communicative Competence

Author Information

Niina Kovalainen, Laurea University of Applied Sciences, Finland
Anne-Mari Raivio, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Abstract

This article examines micro-credentials as a structural and pedagogical interface between higher education and working life. Situated within a Finnish university of applied sciences (UAS) collaboration project, the study explores how profession-specific employability skills and communicative competences can be recognized, validated and developed via micro-credentials. While intercultural communication competence has traditionally focused on cultural awareness and interaction across contextual differences, contemporary professional environments increasingly require transnational communicative competence: the ability to operate fluidly across linguistic, cultural, institutional and digital boundaries. Drawing on an ongoing UAS cooperation project, this paper presents preliminary findings indicating that cross-sector collaboration is not merely beneficial but essential for designing meaningful micro-credentials that serve as agile, future-oriented modes of skill recognition. Early results from this case study suggest that co-creation with working life partners strengthens relevance, authenticity and transferability of learning outcomes. The analysis integrates principles of transnational communication and andragogy, emphasizing adult learners’ experience, self-direction and work-related relevance. From this perspective, micro-credentials are conceptualized not only as modular certifications, but as co-constructed learning processes embedded in professional practice. Recognition and validation of prior and emerging competences, together with up-to-date profession-bound skills, are shown to support not only higher education pathways but also labour market integration and broader societal participation. The paper argues that micro-credentials developed collaboratively with employers and diverse stakeholder groups—including migrants and peer communities—can function as mechanisms of inclusion, competence transparency and ultimately, transnational communicative agency in contemporary Europe.

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• Category: Humanities - Teaching and Learning

Posted by James Alexander Gordon

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