Applications to enter public universities through the new UPU system are now open for SPM and STPM leavers who are considering their higher education options. With a wide range of study programs available, students are exploring different fields to continue their academic journey based on their interests.
In today’s digital age, the field of higher education has expanded to include online courses offered by both local and international universities through platforms like FutureLearn, Edx, and Coursera. These online courses sometimes align with traditional university programs and offer microcredentials, which carry credits equivalent to in-person courses.
Universiti Malaya (UM) has been at the forefront of online education since 2016, offering over 40 courses in various fields through platforms like FutureLearn. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) has also allowed up to 30% of credits required for graduation to be obtained through online courses, providing students with the flexibility to customize their learning experience.
For SPM and STPM leavers, this presents an opportunity to kickstart their university studies by completing a portion of their credits through online courses before formally enrolling in a university. This not only lightens their study load but also potentially shortens the overall duration of their degree program.
Taking advantage of online learning, students like Balqis, who aspire to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science at UM, can begin studying relevant courses online while awaiting university admission. By earning microcredential certificates through online courses, students can later apply for credit transfers at UM, enabling them to progress faster towards their degree.
The credit transfer process involves verifying the authenticity of microcredential certificates and ensuring that the learning outcomes match the university curriculum. This approach allows students to blend online and in-person learning seamlessly, paving the way for a more personalized and efficient educational journey.
As the future of education leans towards microcredentials, individuals can enhance their skills and knowledge in specific areas of interest, gaining recognition through digital badges and certificates. Employers are increasingly valuing these microcredentials as proof of competency, providing individuals with a competitive edge in the job market.
In conclusion, microcredentials offer a flexible and accessible pathway for individuals of all backgrounds to upskill, reskill, and advance their careers. By embracing online learning opportunities and leveraging credit transfer mechanisms, students can create a customized learning experience that aligns with their goals and aspirations.
