An instructional system based on these four premises is presented: (1) Students should set individual goals, (2) students should set specific goals, (3) timed writings should be typed repeatedly until a goal is reached, and (4) a recordkeeping device such as a progress sheet should be utilized. (TA)

In the state of Washington, a consortium including representatives from professional associations, the local school district and school of social work constructed a systems-oriented model for certifying school social workers. Evaluations were based on competencies defined according to the specific job context in which each candidate was working.…

A study was conducted as a preliminary phase in a classroom-based research project investigating how teachers and students construct understandings of literacy assessment during the first year of secondary school. The study was designed to provide information about teachers' perceptions of assessment to assist primary and secondary teachers and…

This document, which was developed for use by Pennsylvania 4-H Club leaders and members, is a chart that can be used to help club members determine and document those sewing skills they already have and those they need to learn as they complete one or more 4-H Club sewing projects. The document begins with a note to club leaders and parents that…

This discussion paper addresses the impact of major trends in certification and credentialing on community colleges. Most community colleges are familiar with traditional credentialing and certification. However, changes in the number of people seeking higher education as a means to a better economic future and the shifting skill requirements of…

Two South Australian studies--an initial and a follow-up study--explored the extent to which students are able to retain knowledge or skill learned in one context and reproduce this knowledge or skill in a different context. Study 1 was conducted with 121 Year 10 students in a country secondary school; study 2 was conducted with 72 Year 10…

This guide to developing and teaching an on-line course is intended to lead the instructor through the steps of course development, on-line teaching, and on-line assessment. It emphasizes principles of course design which are outcome-based, performance-assessed, and collaborative. The guide's nine chapters cover the following aspects of course…

Ohio's Model Competency-Based Science Program is designed to provide direction for school districts in developing local competency-based science education programs. The model is designed to be used to guide the development of district curriculum. The ultimate purpose of Ohio's Model Competency-Based Science Program is to move Ohio towards the…

Discusses the University of Maryland Reading Center Competency Program. (MM)

A competency-based pharmacy course was refined to minimize variations in the instructor-related factors by developing a specialized study guide, a specific lecture format, and precise objective examinations. Student grade expectations, perceived degree of memorizing, hours of study, time taken for examinations, and the absenteeism rate were…

Reveals 16 findings of a study on whether high schools using Competency-Based Testing altered their curriculum differently than Non-Competency-Based-Testing Schools and, if so, what factors (e.g., school size, ethnic makeup, or community type) contributed to the differences. Makes seven recommendations based on study findings. (DMM)

Presents data on student performance in a competency-based, multiple-opportunity format physics course, indicating that costs are related to character of examination questions and comprehensional modes of students. Compares costs for single/multiple trial formats, showing that multiple-trial opportunity has lower costs and a higher yield of…

Describes the implementation of a competency-based individualized and mediated vocational training system, designed to attract and train native Saudis for an increasingly industrialized Saudi Arabian workforce. (SK)

Minimum competencies are being imposed on the schools by state legislators frustrated by declining academic achievement. Teachers must not allow this movement to engender a "teaching for the test" mentality. They must work for a balanced curriculum, good remedial programs, and competency tests which provide real feedback for teaching. (SJL)

Reports on the progress of speech communication education in community colleges since the 1975 Association for Communication Administrators' Denver conference. (PD)