There presently exists an ongoing debate in teacher education concerning the terms "competency-based,""performance-based," and "proficiency-directed." A closer examination of the meanings of these words suggests useful relationships among these terms rather than conflicts. The word "competent" denotes adequacy, suitability, and sufficiency while "proficient" means "performing with expert correctness or facility." This suggests competency-based certification but proficiency-directed teacher education. "Performance-based teacher education" refers to observable demonstrations of teaching knowledge and skill while "competency-based" refers to minimum standards and criteria. Performance-based teacher education focuses on objectives; competency-based teacher education focuses on criteria and standards. These terms are not mutually exclusive. Rather, exploration of both modes provides a process through which the central core and the parameters of competency/performance/proficiency-based teacher education can be identified and employed to improve education. (HMD)