In December, 1977, the Kalamazoo Public Schools surveyed students (grades 10-12) to ascertain their opinions of a proposed competency-based diploma. Most supported the concept, had opinions about the form of such a program, and thought they could pass the test. Differences between Black and White respondents are noted. (Author/SJL)

A teacher notes the good and bad effects of the "back to basics" movement. (RL)

Presents a rationale for using a Mastery Learning approach to competency-based education in public speaking. Identifies assumptions and applications of such an approach and describes procedures for teaching public speaking competence on this basis. (JMF)

The current group-oriented educational system provides education for all, but not for each. Computer-based education, properly used, can give each student a chance to develop fully, but a great deal of support on all levels in needed to bring about the change. (Author/TG)

Traditional vocational education has not served the needs of the disadvantaged population. A new approach to the problem includes requirinq evidence of teachers' personal commitment to the disadvantaged; specially designed preservice and inservice professional preparation; and development of individualized competency-based vocational education.…

Specific skills to be mastered by social work students are identified and a competency based framework for teaching them is delineated. Embodied in this approach is a task centered method of instruction and a "micro" or transactional approach to assessing and advancing students' skill levels. (Author/MLW)

Some of the major concerns regarding competency-based education (CBE) and ways of dealing with them are discussed. CBE is viewed as an opportunity for educators to work for real improvement in the teaching and learning process. (MP)

In order to approach instruction in a systematic manner, a number of factors must be considered. These include the instructional model to be used; individual student learning skills, styles, and preferences; and learning activities. (LRA)

This brief discussion of basic administrative postures may help principals direct their schools' efforts to cope with minimum competency regulations. (Author)

Presents guidelines for teachers in competency-based education settings to use in establishing and maintaining a system of classroom and individual student progress charts and records. Describes the development of an instructional materials file to help students become more responsible for obtaining the materials needed for each lesson. (LRA)

The results of a survey of 40 state residential schools for the deaf on the trends, status, and changes in terms of graduation requirements and the movement (if any) toward competency based education are presented. (PHR)

The author attempts to determine whether the competency trend and the creativity trend are compatible and concludes that they are, that they are two sides of the same learning process, and that the connection between them ought to be pursued by those who are interested in both. (KC)

Santa Maria High School reorganized its management structure so that the comprehensive program for 2400 students requires only four line administrators. Students and teachers are grouped into three learning units, organized around the graduation proficiency requirements of California law AB 65. An organizational chart is provided. (SJL)

Although state policy makers have been setting new standards for public school promotion and graduation under the rubric of Competency Based Education (CBE), they have used the concept of CBE in two different ways; one involves focusing school activities and graduation requirements on various competencies, whereas the other specifies how education…

Competency-based educational programs are here to stay. Here the author describes the program underway in his school system. (Editor/RK)