Dr. Cali Morrison: Competency-Based Learning and the Future of Work (Part 3)

Episode 21

Episode Title

Competency-Based Learning and the Future of Work — with Dr. Calli Morrison (Part 3 of 3)

Episode Summary

In the final part of our three-part series, Dr. Cali Morrison dives into the world of competency-based education (CBE), micro-credentials, and the future of learning and work. She shares how she helped build direct assessment CBE programs at American Public University System, explains the value of micro-credentials and NanoCerts, and discusses how digital badges give learners visibility and ownership of their skills.

Calli also reflects on her current work at EdAssist, where she helps healthcare organizations build career pathways that grow talent from within. Along the way, she offers leadership lessons for innovators—especially women—about embracing failure, taking risks, and engaging learners through authentic assessment.

This episode highlights how education and workforce development are converging, and how innovation can serve real learners.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

  • How Calli became involved in competency-based education (CBE)
  • The difference between direct assessment and credit-hour CBE models
  • Why micro-credentials and NanoCerts give learners valuable milestones
  • How digital badges empower learners to own and share their achievements
  • Calli’s current work with EdAssist building healthcare career pathways
  • Leadership lessons on innovation, risk, and supporting women leaders
  • Why authentic assessment and co-learning engage more learners effectively

Reflection Question

How can you build in authentic assessment to make learning more visible and relevant?

Resources & Links

The technology we used