Empowering Lifelong Learning through Digital Innovation: Evaluating the Performance and Impact of Micro-Credential Development on the UGM Online Platform

Abstract

The growing demand for flexible and accessible learning opportunities has positioned micro-credentials as a transformation tool in higher education. Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), through its innovative UGM Online platform, has embraced this trend to support lifelong learning and workforce upskilling. This study evaluates the performance and impact of micro-credential development on UGM Online during its 2024 operational period, including user engagement, enrollment trends, and  conversion rates. The platform recorded 37,000 visits, with 1,247 learners enrolling in various micro-credential courses, resulting in an average conversion rate of 4.23%. Monthly performance analysis revealed fluctuations in traffic and enrollments, with March showing the highest visits (6,036) but a relatively low conversion rate of 1.97%. In contrast, April and May demonstrated more balanced growth, achieving 4.35% and 5.03% conversion rates, respectively, indicating improved alignment between user expectations and course offerings. These variations highlight the success of outreach strategies in driving traffic and the need to enhance user engagement to boost enrollments. Challenges identified include optimizing the enrollment process, increasing the relevance of course content, and improving the platform's ability to convert visitors into active learners. The study underscores micro-credentials’ potential to address the needs of diverse learners and industry demands while emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement. This paper presents actionable insights for improving micro-credential implementation on digital platforms, focusing on user-centric design, marketing strategies, and stakeholder engagement. By leveraging data-driven evaluations, UGM Online aims to strengthen its role as a leader in digital education innovation, contributing to the global conversation on scalable and impactful lifelong learning solutions. The findings provide valuable benchmarks for institutions aiming to enhance their micro-credential offerings and adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education.