Announcing ID Certifications with Digital Badges
The Institute for Performance Improvement (TIfPI) is proud to announce the newest
performance-based credentials for instructional designers and developers. This series of
certifications with digital badges, collectively called ID Badges, provides a mark of
distinction and credibility for those who develop learning solutions. Each certification in
this series represents a type of learning solution. Individuals can earn multiple badges to
reflect the breadth and depth of their skill base.
ID(AEL)
What badges are available?
 AEL – Asynchronous ELearning
 BLS – Blended Learning Solutions
(combinations of learning solutions)
 C&M – Coaching and Mentoring
 COP – Community of Practice
 EPS – Electronic Performance Support
 GPS – Goal- or Problem-based scenarios
 ILT – Instructor Led Training (live or virtual)
 ISS – Independent Self-study
 JA – Job Aids
 MEL – Mobile ELearning (MLearning)
 OJT – On-the-Job Training
(informal learning)
 RLO – Reusable Learning Objects
 SEL – Synchronous ELearning
 S&L – Simulations and Labs
 SLG – Serious Learning Games
 SM&N – Social Media and Networking
 VA&P – Video, Audio, and Podcast
ID(BLS)
What is a performance-based credential?
Each ID certification is a complete performance-based credential that comes with a mark such as
ID(ILT) and a digital badge. Instead of using knowledge- tests, TIFPI uses descriptions of work
projects, along with exhibits and attestations from clients or supervisors to evaluate a candidate’s
ability to demonstrate skills and knowledge. These performance-based credentials provide a mark
of distinction backed by real-world work experience. Earn as many as you like.
ID(COP)
What can I expect from a digital badge?
Put your digital badge on your website or blog, in your social media profile, in email and other
electronic communication, and on your business card. The digital badge for your ID certification
gives your clients, peers, and superiors a link to information about the certification requirements
and processes. A digital badge tells your audience that you value your work enough to demonstrate
and maintain your expertise against international standards.
ID(EPS)
What will I be certified to do?
Each ID certification and badge provides proof of work. Each addresses a different type of
learning solution and demonstrates skills in developing learning solutions in that area. The ID
certifications use a common set of nine international, theory-free, model-free standards against
which instructional designers and developers judge their work. As performance-based credentials,
each candidate is evaluated on all nine standards.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Addresses sustainability
Aligns solution
Assesses performance
Collaborates and partners
Elicits performance "practice"
ID(GPS)
6. Engages the learner
7. Enhances retention and
transfer
8. Ensures context sensitivity
9. Ensures relevance
ID(ILT)
How do I know that my ID certification, mark, and badge are valued?
Your mark goes in your signature line and title. Your digital badge goes on social media, websites,
blogs, and in email. Each person who accesses your digital badge’s information learns what you did to
earn that badge and can see all the badges you have earned. Now, that’s value every day.
What does my badge NOT do for me?
ID(JA)
These badges are electronic representations of your professional expertise. You cannot use them, as
you might use a workplace badge, to gain access to buildings, websites, or equipment. However, you
can use them to access opportunities for developing more expertise and gaining recognition in the
fields of instructional design, learning technology, and adult education.
Electronic badges do not provide you with the power to stop speeding drivers (or speeding trains), nor
with the authority to issues tickets. However, your badge does give you power to show clients and
employers that field experts reviewed your work and assessed it as being credible work.
ID(MEL)
An electronic badge is not a passport to other countries (or worlds). However, your ID certification
with digital badge meets instructional design standards valued in many countries, industries, and
markets. As you add certifications (and badges), you visibly demonstrate career growth.
How do I apply?
ID(OJT)
1. Go to www.tifpi.org. Select Certifications> IDBadges.
2. Download the handbook, application forms, and evaluation rubrics.
3. Pay your fee and submit your application, which includes:
a. A signed copy of the code of ethics
b. An attestation from a client or supervisor
c. Written descriptions of how your work met the nine standards
d. Up to five pages of exhibits that support your work descriptions
Reviews
ID(SEL)
At least two experts using standardized evaluation rubrics will review your application in a blind
review process. To receive a badge, you must receive an “acceptable” or “outstanding” rating in all
nine standards from both reviewers. You will receive notification of the reviewers’ findings. Once
approved, you can begin using your mark and digital badge to promote your work and to create
personal and professional value.
If your application needs improvements and does not meet standards, you will receive feedback from
reviewers so that you may resubmit your application within 6 months.
ID(SLG)
Above and Beyond
Do you go above and beyond? If you receive “outstanding” ratings in at least seven of the nine
standards, you will receive the honor of a “plus” designation in your mark (e.g., ID(AEL+)) and GOLD
badge, indicating that you hold yourself to a very high standard of design and development.
Multiple Learning Solutions
ID(SM&N)
Earn multiple learning solution certifications and badges. Become certified ID with many solutions in
your mark (e.g., ID(AEL/IDT+/SLG)). Then level up to and advanced certification.