Part 1: The Two Loops Model for Open Recognition advocacy
Recently Keep Badges Weird community member, Alex Enkerli, commented on a post Doug wrote about a maturity model for online, networked communities. In his comment, Alex shared inspiration for the lifespan of a Community of Practice (CoP) as well as the Two Loops Model.
This model, first explained in a paper by Margaret Wheatley & Deborah Frieze of the Berkana Institute (check out the video explanation), shows how systems have a lifespan and what happens as that lifespan peaks.
As one system begins to deteriorate, a new system begins to emerge. This got us thinking about how this model applies to the world of Open Recognition.
Two Systems
It’s interesting to apply the Two Loops model to the context of badges and credentialing. The old system in this case is what we might call “old school credentials” — it’s the degrees, certifications and awards issued by “recognised bodies” like a university or a company. We still need those! That’s awesome! However, the alternative system is not simply about making those old school credentials digital.
The early spirit of the alternative system was about how important recognition itself is, not only in the context of skills or knowledge acquisition, but also for development and participation — personal, professional and social. The alternative system combines credentialing and recognition to give a more nuanced view of a persons learning landscapes and their place within various communities. The new system is about revealing connections.
Working within the system (the first loop)
The two loops model shows that we need to continue working within the current landscape and trends to help transform institutions. The Keep Badges Weird community can offer tools and approaches to help people integrate more Open Recognition in badging programs. We can offer guidance for change and clearly illustrate the “business case” for putting the learn in control of their own pathways. It is time to push harder for the innovation in recognition that we wish to see.
Supporting the alternative system (the second loop)
There is no one ‘correct’ way of doing recognition, rather everyone is welcome and encouraged to explore how combinations of badges might lead us into a future where your learning journey is valued for exactly what it is — a journey. We hope that Keep Badges Weird becomes a big tent for all kinds of initiatives. Perhaps we can increase the visibility of people connected to one another and help establish solidarity within the community.
The great thing about the landscape of Open Recognition is that you don’t need permission to get started. You can recognise someone in your community right now. Not sure how to start? Join the Keep Badges Weird community or check out Badge Wiki.