Badge trouble

Piloting open badges at the Australian National University

Abstract

Despite calls for innovation in learning technologies, setting up new tools for learning at large institutions is an often difficult road. This paper will address the challenges involved in setting up a small pilot of open badges at the Australian National University (ANU). It will investigate the options available for trialing badges when system administrators are unable to support the endeavor, and discuss the university policies and government legislation which have impacted the use of badges at ANU. Drawing on actor-network theory, it examines the complex techno-social environment and power structures surrounding the piloting of new technologies. This paper will also provide suggestions for other institutions struggling with concerns relating to privacy, branding, and reliability of open badges and invite discussion on ways to move forward.