Physicians need to be proficient in the administration of basic cardiac life support (BCLS) and emergency cardiac care (ECC). The introduction of a self-teaching CPR-ECC course for freshmen medical students at the University of Mississippi has greatly reduced the amount of faculty time needed to teach CPR. (Author/MLW)

Some broad problems involved in the assessment of competence in the health professions are defined. They include defining competence, the continuum of health professions education, the process of credentialing, internal/external evaluations, elements of controls on physicians' performance, monitoring process, and maintenance of competence. (MLW)

The system of competency tests used by the University of Georgia System is examined. Arguments for and against the tests developed by the state board of regents are presented, and the issue of racial discrimination is also addressed. (JMF)

The welding training program at Kirkwood Community College, Iowa, combines modular instruction, video tape technology, variable entry and exit registration, competency-based evaluation, self-pacing, and student-centered learning environment. Each learning module includes behavioral objectives, tests, lessons and materials, and completion…

Emphasis in the next decade will be on counselor inservice training that uses the competency-based module approach to ensure the development and delivery of beneficial career guidance experiences. (TA)

Examines the rationale underlying competency-based evaluation, the value of authentic (as contrasted with simulation) assessment, and different techniques used for authentic evaluation. Details four authentic evaluation types useful in dental education: ratings; exemplary products; test cases; and portfolios. Discusses matching evaluation methods…

Describes a new competence-based engineering doctorate proposed by the Science and Economics Research Council (United Kingdom). The Parnaby Report mandated expert knowledge; appreciation of industrial engineering and development culture; skills in: project and program management, teamwork and leadership, communication, technical organization,…

Notes that criticism of the training offered by universities to future chemists is well documented. Suggests a 17-step model for the planning of a chemistry course that utilizes a competency-based training program. Explains each step and lists sample objectives. (MVL)

Examines the underlying reasons for and the possible impact of the decision by the American Library Association (ALA) to become a member of the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The ways in which media specialists prepared in NCATE programs will differ from those prepared in ALA programs are discussed. (four…

Discusses interactive software's ability to allow hands-on learning and help students integrate disciplines by performing creative problem solving. Notes that interactive software allows for meaningful performance-based assessment through the creation of video portfolios of student work. Highlights the growing popularity of performance-based…

A library school dean, a public library director, and a recent graduate working as a public librarian give their reactions to a set of competencies recently developed by the Public Library Association's Education for Public Librarians Committee. Background and future plans for the document are also explained. (SLW)

Implications of competency-based education for dental assistants and hygienists are examined. Such an approach would provide assistance in defining evolving roles in delivery of dental care; help in defining national competencies and analyzing appropriateness of current care; and a mechanism for developing curriculum that responds to community…

Examines the concept of national standards, outcome statements, and other terms of competency for visual arts education. Argues that they are representational concepts that require interpretation by teachers and, as such, run counter to educational goals of establishing an unambiguous link between subject matter and guaranteed levels of student…

Designed to improve equity, MMAP (the Middle School Math Through Applications Project) draws traditionally underserved students, such as minorities and girls, into higher mathematics. The plan features an assessment strategy based on what students are learning, definitions of quality work, student accountability, and encouragement of further…

This article reviews the research related to minimum competency testing (MCT) as a requirement for high school graduation for students with learning disabilities. It examines whether inclusive MCT requirements lead to positive educational outcomes, raises issues of accommodations and alternative diplomas, possible increased dropout rates, and…