Introduction
Micro-credentials are short, competency-based learning modules designed to certify specific research or professional skills. For researchers, they serve as verifiable evidence of methodological expertise, data literacy, academic writing proficiency, or research management ability. Unlike traditional degrees, micro-credentials focus on measurable outcomes, often delivered through online platforms.
This resource maps the major research-related fields, their sub-domains, and specific micro-credential courses that strengthen a researcher’s portfolio.
1. Core Research Methodology and Design
Sub-Domain | Key Micro-Credential Topics | Available Platforms |
Experimental Design & Data Collection | Experimental design principles, control groups, bias minimization, reproducibility standards | Coursera edX FutureLearn Udemy |
Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis | Protocol development (PRISMA), effect size analysis, bias assessment | |
Survey & Qualitative Research | Questionnaire design, coding and thematic analysis |
2. Data Science and Machine Learning for Research
Sub-Domain | Key Micro-Credential Topics | Available Platforms |
Data Analysis & Visualization | Data cleaning, Python, data storytelling |
Coursera edX FutureLearn IBM LinkedIn Learning Udacity Google Skills AWS Academy |
Machine Learning Applications | Regression, classification, model evaluation, explainable AI | |
Deep Learning and Neural Networks | CNNs, RNNs, Transformers for domain tasks | |
Big Data & Cloud Research Environments | Cloud computation for data-intensive research |
3. Statistics, Modelling, and Computational Methods
Sub-Domain | Key Micro-Credential Topics | Available Platforms |
Descriptive & Inferential Statistics | Probability, t-tests, ANOVA, regression |
Coursera edX FutureLearn Udemy |
Bayesian Modelling & Causal Inference | Probabilistic reasoning, causal graphs | |
Computational Modelling & Simulation | Monte Carlo simulations, systems modelling |
4.Research Data Management and FAIR Principles
Sub-Domain | Key Micro-Credential Topics | Available Platforms |
FAIR Data Principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) | Data documentation, metadata creation | Coursera edX FutureLearn Canvas Network |
Data Management Plans (DMPs) | Planning, documentation preservation policies. | |
Data Ethics & Governance | Data privacy, GDPR, consent protocols |
5.Open Science, Reproducibility, and Research Transparency
Sub-Domain | Key Micro-Credential Topics | Available Platforms |
Open Science Practices | OSF, pre-registration, data sharing |
Coursera edX FutureLearn
|
Reproducible Research Workflows | Git/GitHub, Jupyter, Docker | |
Research Integrity & Ethics | Ethical dilemmas, publication misconduct |
6. Scholarly Communication, Writing, and Publishing
Sub-Domain | Key Micro-Credential Topics | Available Platforms |
Academic Writing and Publishing | Paper structure, journal targeting | Coursera edX FutureLearn
|
Grant Writing & Funding Proposals | Proposal development, impact sections, budgets | |
Peer Review and Editorial Processes | Peer reviewer training, editorial ethics |
Conclusion
Micro-credentials and digital badges are reshaping research education by offering verifiable, competency-based recognition of specialized skills. They help researchers fill methodological gaps, build interdisciplinary expertise, and enhance readiness for collaborative or grant-driven work. Choosing trusted platforms such as Coursera, edX, FutureLearn, IBM SkillsBuild, and LinkedIn Learning enables continuous, credible professional growth.