Introduction
The POIJU project strengthens the competence of staff at the Universities of Jyväskylä and Tampere, as well as at their universities of applied sciences, in the design, implementation, and administration of micro-credentials.
The project develops customer-oriented and work-life-relevant educational models, particularly for the social and health care sectors and safety and security fields. It emphasizes digital pedagogical competence and flexible learning methods for the working-age population.
As a result, a pedagogical framework, a digital toolbox, and a coaching model will be created to support the adoption of more effective education practices that better serve the needs of working life.
Background
The development of staff capability within higher education institutions in this project is based on the draft framework by the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture concerning micro-credentials in higher education. The project is part of Finland’s national theme for continuous learning, under which 15 EU co-funded projects were launched in spring 2025. These projects aim to develop strategic, sector-specific network cooperation and enhance the capacity of higher education and vocational education institutions to offer micro-credentials and pilot digital badges for adults’ basic skills.
Objective
The objective is to establish shared concepts and administrative practices. The project aims to design new teaching methods and practices that better serve the needs of working life and enable more efficient and flexible learning through micro-credentials.
A digital toolbox and coaching model will be developed for teaching staff to support the implementation of the toolbox and help staff apply their new knowledge in practice.
Impact
In line with Finland’s national continuous learning policy, the project’s main focus is on developing the structures and operating models of the participating higher education institutions. The project supports the right to education and lifelong learning across Europe, as outlined in the European Pillar of Social Rights, which is part of the European recovery and resilience programme.
Funding
The project is co-funded by the European Union: Renewing and Competent Finland 2021–2027, EU Regional and Structural Policy Programme, European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).
Consortium Partners
The lead partner and coordinator of the project is the University of Jyväskylä, responsible in particular for the development of academic administrative processes, communications, and stakeholder cooperation. The universities of applied sciences in Jyväskylä and Tampere focus on developing work-life collaboration in the social and health care, and safety and security sectors. TAMK specifically focuses on rehabilitation, wellness, and health technology. The fourth partner is Tampere University, responsible for strengthening the pedagogical capabilities of training providers.