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)

A system that helps students monitor their progress by providing regular feedback and producing a learning curve for each student as well as the whole class is described. The system is also designed to help faculty evaluate their own teaching performance. (MSE)

Defines competency-based adult education; provides a brief history of the Adult Performance Level (APL) Curriculum and Competency-Based High School Diploma program; explains the National Diffusion Network; examines how the APL staff offers training and technical assistance; and focuses on nontraditional APL program implementation. (CT)

Competency-based orientation for nurses provides a practical and cost-effective transition to the practice setting. The program requires a large initial investment in the development of self-learning materials and evaluation tools but greatly reduces instructor time. (SK)

Counterpoint between two educators discussing the issue of competency based English instruction. (RL)