While Open Digital Badges (ODBs) has gained an increasing recognition as micro-credentials, many researchers foresee the role of ODBs as an innovative learning tool to enhance learning experiences beyond that of an alternative credential. However, little research has explored this topic. The purposes of this paper are to 1) argue that one way to expand the impact of ODBs on learning is to integrate them with goal setting, 2) establish how ODBs could offer as an important tool in optimizing goal setting effects on learning, and 3) provide design recommendations for future educational practices that incorporate ODBs as a pedagogical tool.