Reflection Support for Novice Learners:Combining Digital Badges with Follow Up Surveys

Abstract

A digital badge symbolizes not only the completion but also the mastery of a learning process and its outcomes. Previously, we had designed a digital badge to serve as a learning portfolio linked to an instructional design workshop. In this study, we created a follow-up activity in which we combined the digital badge with a survey aimed to support and trigger learners’ reflection on learning outcomes and verified its effects. Results highlighted the use of digital badges to access course knowledge and feedback and as a learning reflection tool. Furthermore, we observed that digital badges as a learning portfolio might encourage learners to apply their learned skills in the workplace. To facilitate novice learners’ reflection on their learning outcomes, combining digital badges that provide easily accessible, meaningful learning information with follow-up strategies that stimulate reflection could be practical. Implications and future directions are also discussed.