Considers how the wedding of competency-based education (CBE), centered on basic skills, and experiential education, advocating that learning requires accompanying experience to be effective, offers creative approach to implementation of CBE. Examples from St. Paul Open School illustrate how minimum competency skills can be incorporated into an…

After the introduction of outcome-based instruction, students in Red Bank (New Jersey) schools achieved significantly higher scores in the required statewide tests. (MLF)

Discusses the role and use of achievement tests with particular reference to industry. It describes concepts of validity and reliability, looks at problems, and generally gives helpful hints on use. Contains figures illustrating the process of developing instruction and an example of a simple performance test. (CT)

Which method of instruction is more effective for postsecondary students: competency-based or traditional? This study reveals that the effectiveness of one method over the other depends on work experience of the student. (Author)

Two questions are addressed: (1) What is Competency-Based Education (CBE); and (2) What are some persistent questions which need solutions in CBE? CBE is seen to be a unique and powerful vehicle which teachers can use to deliver instruction according to a student's needs. (MP)

Explores materials in the ERIC system that discuss all sides of the minimum competency issue. (RL)

Training Extension Course (TEC) system, based on individual, performance-oriented achievement, represents a revolution in Army training concepts and practices. It involves using measurable behavioral objectives, criterion-referenced testing, and validated training materials. (JOW)

School districts need a comprehensive, long-range blueprint for their total operation. The goal-competency-objective hierarchy allows them to become systematic in design and operation. (Author)

Discusses the application of competency-based instruction to the teaching of theater arts in secondary schools. Advocates a four-step process of goal identification; procedure, content, and method selection; student participation; and evaluation of goal achievement. (JMF)

Extends the study of communication apprehension (CA) impact in the instructional environment through examination of high, low, and moderate CA levels relative to various performance situations in a basic communication course. Results indicate significant differences in achievement indices between the three CA groups. (JMF)

Argues that a well-articulated theory of instruction provides a guide for the evaluation of computer-assisted instructional systems by helping to define the criteria. Individual differences, responsive environment, criterion-referenced education, and cognitive psychology are discussed in reference to adaptive education. Thirteen references are…

A Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) is based on four principles: it is (1) mastery oriented, (2) individually paced, (3) student proctored, and (4) includes lectures for stimulation and motivation. Advantages of PSI for vocational education courses are noted. (LRA)

Parent programing should be based on the beliefs and assumptions of both parents and professionals. Competency-based programing is presented as a promising approach to improving parent competence. Results of initial studies in parent competency identification, prioritization, and assessment are discussed along with procedures for instructional…

Agricultural educators will be expected to come closer to identifying specific knowledge, skills, attitudes, and experiences that students develop as a result of teachers' efforts. Making animal agriculture courses competency-based would be a first step towards this end. (LRA)

The importance of clearly stated criteria to identify and describe expected performance levels of undergraduate social work students at the end of practicum courses is emphasized. These criteria should be an integral part of the fieldwork program and reflect program objectives, community social service needs, and accreditation standards. (MSE)