In recent years, universities have been developing more robust competency-based classes for students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Competency-based education (CBE) is based on outcomes and is student-centred, creating a better learning experience. This paper provides context for competency-based education over a…

The purpose of this literature review was to synthesize relevant research concerning the blended learning and flipped lesson models, and their potential role in performance-based music classrooms. I provide theoretical backgrounds of these models and introduce Puentedura's Substitution Augmentation Modification Redefinition model as a possible…

The present literature review explores research on characteristics of effective Living Learning Communities as a means to inform the continued development of a new LLC at Cleveland State University, a large urban, Predominately White University (PWU). Research on retention and persistence is explored with respect to students' strengths and…

Background: Over the past decade, there has been a shift in science, technology, engineering and math education, especially in engineering, towards a competency-based pedagogy. Competency-based learning (CBL) is an outcome-based, student-centered form of instruction where students progress to more advanced work upon mastering the necessary…

Reviews literature on U.S. Office of Education-sponsored Adult Performance Level project that cites among its accomplishments (1) a model for competency-based education, (2) creation of national awareness of illiteracy, and (3) individualized programs. Among its insufficiencies are absence of reliable measures of validity, value-laden curriculum,…

Examines key descriptors of competency-based education in light of critiques from the fields of curriculum theory, adult basic education, and second-language acquisition theory. Included is a discussion of: behavioral orientation; student-centered instruction; demonstrated mastery; and modularized instruction. (Author/CB)

A literature review examined how literacy programs can assess their effectiveness by looking at outcomes and using this information. Very few empirical studies showed the impacts of literacy programs or identified predictors of program success. One reason was the lack of common criteria for evaluating performance. One evaluation issue was whether…

Examines theoretical and practical deficiencies in how curricular objectives are selected for functional, competency based approaches to English as a second language instruction. Issues are illustrated through an analysis of the functional curricula of the United States Refugee Processing Centers. (Author/CB)

This report on the state level use and application of the 1971-1977 Adult Performance Level (APL) study contains two reports: "Competencies for Adult Basic Education and Diploma Programs: A Summary of Studies and Cross-Reference of Results." by Joan Keller Fischer and "The APL Study: Science, Dissemination, and the Nature of Adult…

Having established that mastery learning works, researchers are beginning to investigate components of the system and theorists are integrating it with other recent trends. (Author)

This book provides a review of (primarily Australian) research on competency-based training (CBT). It includes information on the industrial and economic contexts that formed the backdrop for training reform in Australia. Information is presented to show how implementation of CBT has affected teaching, learning, and administration in vocational…

These proceedings include the following papers: "An Assessment of the National FFA Public Service Announcement Program" (Sutphin, Dillon, and Rush); "Educational Objectives and Administrative Criteria for the National FFA Contest Program" (Smith and Kahler); "A National Profile of Agricultural Teacher Educators and State Supervisors of Vocational…

The Frontline Management Initiative (FMI) provides a framework for competency-based development of frontline managers in Australian enterprises. The FMI's impact on businesses was examined in a national study that included the following activities: focus groups; a national survey of management development and targeted national survey of FMI users;…

The competency-based teacher education movement introduced evaluation of individual and institutional effectiveness at every level of teacher training. Though it has not accomplished its promised reform of teacher education, CBTE has stimulated research, it has triggered changes in teacher certification requirements, and its influence is found…

This yearbook contains 24 reports concerning the following seven challenges currently facing vocational education: new needs for job training, reexamining value bases, a growing network of vocational educators, reflecting on past effectiveness, the continuing challenge to meet individual and special needs, strengthening curricula and instruction,…