Presents controversies concerning competency based education (CBE). Lists and explains common characteristics of the CBE model: (1) prior knowledge by the student of educational objectives; (2) student responsibility for learning; and (3) criterion-based evaluation. Stresses needs for simplification, communication and adequate time for testing CBE…

Criterion-referenced measurement is valuable and useful in evaluating instruction in areas of the pharmaceutical curriculum in which a minimal knowledge base independent of peer group performance is necessary. Implications of its use are discussed. (LBH)

California's continuous-improvement accountability system in which all elements are aligned and work together for the purpose of promoting and improving student learning is presented. The state's comprehensive, standards-based system rests on five key components: (1) student learning and achievement are at the heart of education; (2) standards are…

The model competency-based education assessments for mathematics have been developed in cooperation with the Ohio Council of Teachers of Mathematics (OCTM) task force for implementing National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards for Grades 1 through 8. Three types of assessment for each grade are presented. The first type of model…

All 50 states are moving toward accountability systems that involve setting clear standards of learning, assessing student progress on those standards, and providing a variety of incentives and sanctions for performance. Many educators remain profoundly ambivalent; however, they recognize opportunities for positive change but worry that a narrow…

These proceedings include an overview of the meeting, at which 75 leaders from secondary and postsecondary education, business, and state agencies met to discuss competency-based education systems and updates on the status of competency-based admissions in a number of states. The proceedings also provide a list of suggested regional activities to…

A counselor training program has been designed by a consortium of Oregon State educational and occupational organizations. The program is competency-based, individualized, open-entry/open-exit, and field centered. Counselors who complete the course can receive a Masters Degree from Oregon State University. (KP)

Reviews the current state of assessment of competencies for school media programs, describes a procedure for categorizing assessment strategies, and presents an approach to determine which competencies and assessment strategies are used in professional courses. A case study of a program at Syracuse University and 11 references are included. (EJS)

Describes the requirements mandated on educators by the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (1975) which requires the preparation of an individualized education program (IEP) for handicapped students. Provides three options for instructors using a competency-based vocational education (CBVE) method employing competencies as a part of the…

Discusses the relationship between community development (CD) and community education. Describes the undergraduate CD curriculum at the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee and compares it with traditional curricula. Considers how this approach relates to the principles of community education. (Author/SK)

The author discusses his belief that the emphasis on competency-based, outcome-oriented curricula serves two purposes: (1) it recruits students who also believe in this educational theory; and (2) it provides a framework within which "unlearning" and more significant personal learning can take place. (CT)

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)