The idea behind stackable credentials is that seamless academic programs -- ranging potentially from six-credit certificates to terminal degrees -- allow students to leave higher education for a job and then return later, with their credits counting toward the next certificate or degree.
However, some worry that stackable pathways could shunt students, particularly those from underserved populations, away from degrees and toward short-term credentials of questionable value.
A new research paper validates some of those worries.
Read more at Inside Higher Ed: https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2016/10/12/stackable-credential-pathways-can-lead-short-term-certificates-questionable-value