Getting Started: Badge Issuers & Designers
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Four Quadrants of Recognition
The Plane of Recognition (see diagram below) is based on an original by Serge Ravet. The 2x2 grid creates four quadrants by mapping against each other two continuums relating to recognition: formal/non-formal, and traditional/non-traditional.
Most people are familiar with traditional, formal recognition (see Quadrant 3). This is the type of recognition which is often bestowed by educational institutions such as universities, and usually takes the form of degrees, diplomas, and certificates. More recently, smaller examples of traditional, formal recognition have become popular through microcredentials.
However, many more types of recognition are possible, as shown by the examples in the other quadrants described below. As you continue your journey into Open Recognition, consider that these quadrants are not mutually exclusive, but instead build up a rich tapestry allowing learners to show themselves more holistically. The examples of badges and badge pathways give some suggestions of how this might work in practice.
Quadrant 1 (traditional, non-formal)
Badges issued for traditional, non-formal recognition celebrate community and shared identity, fostering an environment where traditional skills and values are acknowledged within a non-formal context. They are particularly useful in settings where communal activities and collective achievements are central, as they help in building a strong sense of belonging and identity among members.
Types and examples
- Collective Badges
- Awarded to groups who accomplish a shared goal, these badges can strengthen team spirit and encourage collaborative efforts.
- Example: a badge awarded to a community garden project where all members contributed to the garden's establishment and maintenance.
- Affiliation Badges
- These badges signify membership and shared values within a group or organisation.
- Example: an 'Eco-Warrior' badge given to members of an environmental club who regularly participate in sustainability activities.
- Scout Badges
- Rooted in tradition, scout badges validate individual achievements within a broader community context.
- Example: a 'Community Service' badge in a scouting organisation, awarded to scouts who complete a set number of hours serving their local community.
Badge pathways
When considering this quadrant, badge pathways often lead individuals to more formal recognition as they advance in their community or organisation. For example, an Affiliation Badge could be a prerequisite for a Competency Badge in Quadrant 3 (traditional, formal), symbolising foundational community values before formal skill assessment.
Quadrant 2 (non-traditional, non-formal)
Badges issued for non-traditional, non-formal recognition are a testament to the individual's agency in their learning and development, moving away from traditional and formal structures. They are useful in fostering self-directed learning and peer-supported growth, especially in fluid and dynamic learning environments.
Types and examples
- Dream Badges
- These badges represent personal or aspirational achievements, serving as motivators and milestones.
- Example: a 'Novel Writer' badge for aspiring authors who complete the first draft of their manuscript.
- Self-Issued Badges
- Individuals award these to themselves to mark personal milestones or self-assessed proficiency.
- Example: a 'Meditation Master' badge someone might award to themselves after completing a 30-day meditation challenge.
- Peer-Issued Badges
- These badges are granted by peers and reflect recognition within a community or network.
- Example: a 'Collaborative Innovator' badge issued by team members to an individual who has significantly contributed to a group project.
- Peer-Endorsed Badges
- Carrying a peer's endorsement, these badges add credibility and social proof to one's skills.
- Example: a 'Peer-Reviewed Educator' badge for teachers who have been endorsed by their colleagues for exceptional teaching practices.
Badge pathways
Badges issued with this quadrant can often be found in badge pathways leading to or from badges in Quadrant 4. This enables individuals to use self-directed and peer-supported recognition to leverage new opportunities and further learning. For example, a Dream Badge might lead to seeking a Nano-diploma in the Recognition quadrant as one works towards making their dream a recognised reality.
Quadrant 3 (traditional, formal)
Badges issued for traditional, formal recognition serve as the cornerstone of formal education and professional development, validating achievements against established standards. They are critical in contexts where certification and standardised assessment are necessary, such as academia and regulated industries.
Types and examples
- Competency Badges
- These signify mastery over a specific skill set and are often linked to professional or educational standards.
- Example: a 'Certified Data Analyst' badge awarded to individuals who pass a standardised data analysis proficiency test.
- Microcredentials
- Represent focused learning achievements that can be stacked towards larger qualifications.
- Example: a 'Blockchain Basics' microcredential for completing a short course on blockchain technology.
- Nano-diplomas
- These are granular acknowledgements of expertise within a specialised area, often part of a broader curriculum.
- Example: a 'User Experience Design' nano-diploma awarded after completing a series of workshops and projects related to UX design.
- Diplomas
- Traditional qualifications that represent a comprehensive understanding of a subject area.
- Example: a 'Bachelor of Science in Nursing' diploma from an accredited university.
Badge pathways
Badges in Quadrant 3 often serve as endpoints of badge pathways or as stepping stones to further education and professional roles. For example, a Competency Badge might be complemented by a Quadrant 4 badge like a 'Conversational Badge', which encourages the holder to engage in professional dialogue and networking.
Quadrant 4 (non-traditional, formal)
Badges issued for non-traditional, formal recognition are the bridge between formal recognition and non-traditional pathways. They are instrumental in contexts where ongoing development is key, and they encourage learners to explore new avenues and possibilities.
Types and examples
- Conversational Badges
- Designed to initiate dialogue, these badges can open doors to networking and collaborative opportunities.
- Example: a 'Tech Talk Participant' badge for those who engage in technology-focused discussions at a conference or meetup.
- Smart Badges
- Interactive and data-rich, these badges often link to a digital portfolio or body of work.
- Example: an 'Innovative Educator' smart badge that links to a portfolio of teaching resources and methodologies developed by the recipient.
- Badges as Launchpads:
- These badges validate readiness for new challenges and can act as prerequisites for advanced learning or roles.
- Example: an 'AI Research Ready' badge for individuals who have completed prerequisite courses in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Badge pathways
Quadrant 4 badges facilitate transitions, allowing individuals to move seamlessly between learning experiences and professional growth. For example, a badge pathway which includes a badge from this quadrant, such as a 'Smart Badge', may also include a Quadrant 2 badge which reflects individual interests and achievements that are not traditionally recognised.