Meaning of Competency-Based Learning

Competency-based learning = Focuses on students demonstrating desired learning outcomes Mastery-based learning = May focus on concepts as well as skills Observable skills = Emphasized in competency-based learning Vocational learning = Can be a classification of competency-based learning

Competency-based learning focuses on mastery. = True Competency-based learning is solely vocational. = False Mastery-based learning may focus on concepts. = True Observing students' abilities is important in competency-based learning. = True

Curriculum pace = Determines how students progress Academic focus = Can be a characteristic of competency-based learning Moving through curriculum at own speed = Emphasized in competency-based learning Disagreement on defining traits = Common in discussions about competency-based learning

Academic learning = Can be entirely academic in competence-based learning Vocational learning = Traditionally thought of as part of competency-based learning Skill-based learning = Can be classified under competency-based learning Mastery learning = May focus on concepts and skills

Focus on mastery = Key characteristic of competency-based learning Students demonstrating outcomes = Emphasized in competency-based learning Comparable to mastery-based learning = Similar to another approach in education Classification as academic, vocational, or skill-based = Possible categorization of competency-based learning

Competency-based learning = Students must demonstrate mastery before proceeding Mastery learning = Students work together and advance at their own speed Outcomes-based learning = Identifying competencies beforehand and frequent assessments Flexible competency-based programs = No rigid schedule, semesters, or classes

Flexibility in programs = Structure depends on individual learner, no rigid schedule Self-paced learning = Focus on final outcome, control over pacing and completion Collaborative learning = Working together and advancing at own speed Prioritizing mastery over summative achievement = Students must demonstrate mastery before moving forward

No classes or set semesters = Structure allows students to guide their learning and control completion Control over when to complete projects and assessments = Flexibility in determining pace of learning Credit for previous experience = Allows entry at any level based on prior knowledge and skills Focus on final outcome rather than the journey = Enables students to take assessments as soon as they feel ready

Demonstrating mastery before proceeding = Strong connection to mastery learning Identifying competencies beforehand = Similar to outcomes-based learning Frequency of assessments = Students are frequently assessed based on identified competencies No confinement by set learning process = Allows control over pacing and completion of degree

Flexible competency-based programs = Structure depends on individual learner, no rigid schedule Self-paced learning approach = Control over pacing and completion of degree at own speed Collaborative student work = Students advancing together at their preferred speed Mastery demonstration requirement = Students must prove mastery before moving forward

Student's progression through curriculum

Mastery-based focuses on observable skills, while competency-based is academic

Academic, vocational, or skill-based

Student's demonstration of intended learning outcomes

By allowing students to move at their own pace

Both focus on mastery over summative achievement

Competency-based programs allow entry at any level and no set classes

Because it allows learners to control their pacing and completion of their degree

Students can control their pacing and take assessments at their own discretion

Both focus on identifying competencies beforehand and frequent assessments