Competency-based education refers to educational programs that require students to master certain skills or objectives. These skills or objectives are called competencies. In competency-based education, also known as CBE, curriculum developers, teachers, parents, and school administrators often work together to select the competencies. For example, they may decide to make the ability to distinguish fact from opinion one competency for a fourth-grade reading program.
Schools may use several kinds of CBE programs. One kind focuses on basic academic skills. Another kind involves practical life skills. Increasingly, CBE programs are becoming more common in higher education, especially in such professional fields as health sciences, engineering, and education. In most CBE programs, students take minimum competency tests to determine how well they have learned the chosen skills. Some CBE programs require students to pass such tests before they may graduate.
Many educators believe CBE has several advantages over other programs. They say students work harder when given a clear set of goals. CBE programs can also ensure that students master certain skills during their school years. CBE tests can help teachers identify learning difficulties. As a result of CBE, some state governments have provided additional funds for remedial programs. These programs give special help to students who have difficulty mastering the competencies.
Critics of competency-based education fear that some students may not receive adequate preparation for the tests. These students may get discouraged and drop out of school. Some critics also believe that CBE remedial programs do not have a lasting effect.
CBE gained popularity in the United States during the 1970’s. More than two-thirds of the states now require some CBE programs.
