Competency-Based Education* refers to systems of instruction, assessment, grading, and academic reporting that are based on students demonstrating that they have learned the knowledge and skills they are expected to learn as they progress through their education. In public schools, competency-based systems use state learning standards to determine academic expectations and define “proficiency” in a given course, subject area, or grade level. The general goal of competency-based learning is to ensure that students are acquiring the knowledge and skills that are deemed to be essential to success in school, higher education, careers, and adult life. If students fail to meet expected learning standards, they typically receive additional instruction, practice time, and academic support to help them achieve proficiency or meet the expected standards.
*also known as Competency-Based, Competency-Bases System, Competency-Based Learning, Competency Education, Proficiency-Based Learning,
Definitions: "Glossary of Education Reform." Great Schools Partnership, Inc. N.p., n.d. Web.