Micro-Credential Pilot Program Admissions

The micro-credential has a coherent structure in terms of its learning outcomes, content, level and credit value which is appropriate for its purpose.

Develop the essential technical, safety, problem-solving, and professional skills required to effectively navigate workplace environments across various industries. Learners will gain the ability to identify and mitigate risks, apply industry standards and best practices, communicate effectively, make informed decisions, and uphold ethical and inclusive leadership principles to contribute to safe, efficient, and sustainable work environments. These outcomes will be applied in real-world settings by enabling learners to assess workplace hazards, implement safety controls, and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards. They will also be equipped to manage projects effectively, foster collaboration within diverse teams, and drive innovation while maintaining a commitment to environmental and social responsibility. By integrating these skills, learners will be prepared to adapt to industry challenges, enhance workplace efficiency, and support long-term organizational success.

Methods/arrangements for delivery are clearly identified, appropriate to the needs and level of the intended students and designed to support the achievement of the learning outcomes.

Learning includes:

• Self-directed activities
• Field trips
• Networking events
• Asynchronous learning
• Synchronous learning

Activities can include:

• Asynchronous course content such as videos, reading material, quizzes and external resources (websites) An instructor is assigned to each micro-course to monitor progress and answer questions.
• Synchronous content includes: Each semester, the Goodman School of Mines identifies events and organizes field trips for participants enrolled in the relevant micro-course to attend and gain real-world experience. Similarly, networking events are identified for participants to practice their knowledge and skills and build their network.

A total of 142 learning hours make up the total of all six courses (~20-40h/course). Approximately 20 hours are dedicated to in-person, work integrated learning activities such as field trips, activities, and networking events. The online, self-directed activities are completed at the participants own pace, before the end of the course offering. A weekly planning schedule is provided for each micro-course.

Adequate information is available to students including, where applicable, information on entry and selection requirements, recognition of prior learning, reassessment and appeals, student progress, financial information, and requirements for completion.

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Requirements: Applicants must 1) be currently enrolled at a post-secondary institution in Canada; OR 2) be currently employed in the mineral resources industry, OR a related industry, and hold a secondary (high school) diploma.
• Experience: No experience required.
• Commitment: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to foster their leadership and character development skills, and to participate in the program to the best of their capabilities.

Application Process

• Submission Requirements: Applicants must submit a completed application form, along with any required documents (resume, references).
• Deadline: All applications must be submitted by the indicated deadline (1 week before the start of regular classes each semester)
• Selection Process: Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee based on eligibility, merit, and relevance to program objectives.

Selection Criteria

• Merit: Evaluation based on academic achievements, experience, or other relevant accomplishments.
• Relevance: How the applicant’s background aligns with the program’s goals.
• Motivation: The applicant’s interest in and commitment to the program as demonstrated in their application.

Program Expectations

• Payment: Successful applicants must pay the course’s tuition fee prior to starting the course.
  ○ Payment Method: The payment will be disbursed directly to Laurentian University.
  • Due date: Prior to the 1st day of micro-course offering.
  • Drop out date: (2 weeks after the start of the micro-course). Participants must contact the instructor before this date to receive a full refund.
  • Attendance: Participants are expected to attend all scheduled activities.
• Completion: Participants must attempt to complete all assignments and activities, and receive a minimum of 70%, to successfully finish each course.

Assessment and moderation of the courses will be conducted through a combination of automated and instructor-led grading to ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation of student progress. Quizzes and self-directed activities will be assessed using automatic grading systems for immediate feedback, while assignments, case studies, and practical applications will be reviewed and graded by instructors to provide personalized guidance and support. Additionally, students' engagement will be evaluated based on their participation in in-person or community events and activities, reinforcing the application of course concepts in real-world scenarios. A final overall mark of 70% is required to pass each course, ensuring that learners have demonstrated sufficient competency in technical knowledge, problem-solving, safety awareness, and professional skills. Moderation processes will be in place to maintain grading consistency, including instructor calibration sessions and periodic review of assessments to uphold academic integrity and alignment with learning objectives.

There is an effective process for the ongoing review of the micro-credential (including delivery, purpose, continuous improvement, and currency) and for monitoring the outcomes for students and stakeholders.

Quality assurance for each course will be maintained through a structured and continuous improvement process that ensures the micro-courses remain relevant, effective, and aligned with industry needs. The courses will undergo regular review cycles that assess content accuracy, instructional effectiveness, and student engagement. Feedback from learners, instructors, and industry stakeholders will be collected through surveys, performance analytics, and advisory committees to identify areas for enhancement.

Delivery methods are continuously evaluated to integrate best practices in online and experiential learning, ensuring accessibility and engagement. The purpose and objectives of each micro-course will be reassessed periodically to align with emerging industry trends, evolving workplace standards, and regulatory changes. Course materials, assessments, and technology will be updated accordingly to maintain currency and relevance.

Monitoring student and stakeholder outcomes is a key aspect of quality assurance. Completion rates, assessment results, and employment outcomes will be analyzed to measure the effectiveness of the micro-courses and program in equipping learners with the necessary skills. Employer and industry feedback further inform improvements, ensuring that graduates meet workforce expectations. Additionally, moderation processes, instructor training, and peer reviews contribute to maintaining assessment fairness and instructional consistency across all courses.