This contribution to the symposium on Michael Young's article "Overcoming the crisis in curriculum theory: a knowledge based approach", supports his contention that curriculum theory has lost sight of its object--"what is taught and learned in schools", and argues that this has particularly deleterious consequences for…

Discusses Robert Mager's theory of performance-based objectives that keeps trainers on a goal-oriented track and offers the promise of results. Indicates that society and the workplace are increasingly more complex and that trainers must be more versatile and know when to adapt Mager-type objectives to meet their needs. (JOW)

A germ cell model of development based on a cognitive view of learning is used to propose that the cognitive skills needed in today's workplace necessitate reconceptualizing skill acquisition, learning, and training. The model is contrasted with the limitations of competency-based, behaviorist approaches. (SK)

Pressure from policymakers and industry and the drive for competitiveness are the impetus behind national industry skill standards, already in place in some industries and states. Obstacles include controversy over the cluster versus specific approach, union fears, and employer and school acceptance. (SK)

The author argues that competency-based education does not fit all vocational education applications and should be used in moderation. He also discusses vocational education's focus on actual occupational tasks and the use of criterion-referenced measurement of performance. (CT)

Reviews development of competency-based standards for National Vocational Qualifications in purchasing as well as criticisms of the competency-based concept related to higher order skills, subjectivity, atomism, and imprecision. Argues that validity of qualifications lies in practitioner involvement in development; their value is in personnel…

Skills acquisition is complex and cyclic rather than linear and modular as in competency-based training methods. It depends not only on mental attributes that infuse meaning but also on personality dimensions, learning styles, and self-concerns. This raises ethical questions about policies emphasizing competency-based methods. (SK)

Analyzes, within the historical context of functional literacy, a Connecticut Department of Education policy paper linking adult basic education and work force development. Calls for broader basic education that links instrumental knowledge with autobiographical insight and meaningful sociocultural knowledge using collaborative methodology. (SK)

Describes Baltimore Learning Communities, a school reform project that includes a competency-based model based on the competencies identified by the Labor Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS). (JOW)

Describes Project CLASS (Competency Based Live- Ability Skills), which is aimed at adult basic education students who need instruction in basic skills in order to survive and earn a living in America. (JOW)

In Australia, an extensive system of competency-based training (CBT) has been established. Business, education, and unions contend that CBT is more equitable in matching training with task needs, broadening the range of abilities, and enabling portability. But little evidence shows that it reduces divisions between vocational education and general…

Discusses the growing importance of transnational, competency-based training in information technology and considers implications for traditional institutions of higher education. Considers the awarding of certificates rather than degrees; the types of providers offering training; the role of testing companies in the certification process; and the…

Originally created in the late 1960s, DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) is a method for conducting an occupational analysis that identifies the tasks that must be performed by persons employed in a specific job or occupational area. As a result of the occupational analysis, a profile chart is developed that identifies the duties and tasks associated…

This discussion of the education received by professionals in the fields of libraries and information services highlights education versus training, educator and practitioner values, complaints about library education, improvement of library schools, alternatives to the problems, and identification of basic competencies. Ten sources are noted.…

The author provides an example of how an individualized competency-based skills training program available for secondary students of all abilities can assist those who intend to seek advanced placement in postsecondary training in vocational-technical education or college education. (CT)