Credential Chats: Clarifying CLRs
A conversation with Rob Coyle on Comprehensive Learner Records and why standards matter
Let’s be honest: one of the most common things people say about Comprehensive Learner Records (CLRs) is some version of, “Huh?”
In this episode of Credential Chats, I caught up with Rob Coyle from 1EdTech to delve into the evolving (and confusing!) landscape of CLRs, with the goal of leaning on his expertise to demystify what these things even are and what they’re supposed to do.
One of 1EdTech’s roles is to serve as a steward of data standards, so it makes sense that Rob anchored his insights in the necessity for universal, standardized approaches to credentialing. “It’s about ensuring interoperability, so regardless of the platform, your data moves seamlessly,” he explained.
One of the most common things people say about Comprehensive Learner Records (CLRs) is some version of, “Huh?”
The conversation highlights the critical role of standardized data formats in enhancing the transparency, trustworthiness, and usability of digital credentials. As Rob put it, “Just like a VHS fits any player designed for its standard, a well-defined CLR should seamlessly integrate across systems, ensuring its universal acceptance and reliability.”
If you can’t play the tape, it doesn’t matter how good the movie is!
A key takeaway is the importance of understanding that “CLR” is a data standard.
Rob points out that we sometimes hear things described as CLRs that, while looking and behaving a lot like CLRs, are not CLRs. It’s similar to video cassettes that look like VHS tapes but won’t play in a VCR because they aren’t actually VHS compatible.
“…a well-defined CLR should seamlessly integrate across systems, ensuring its universal acceptance and reliability.”
If you watch the recording, I think it will make sense, and it might help you know some of what you don’t know about CLRs!
Dive into the full (15 minute) conversation in AACRAO’s Innovative Credentials community, where you can also lend your own voice to the conversation. It is FREE to join after creating an account, and it’s also where you can tune into Credential Chats when they stream live!
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