Performance-based policy in postsecondary vocational education and employment training programs has two major goals. First, it seeks to increase the basic and job-specific skills needed by program participants to perform effectively in occupations related to training. Second, it aims to stimulate debate over what the appropriate outcomes for…

This paper contains a concise summary of the theory and practice of competency-based education, especially as it applies to adult education. The paper first defines competency-based education (CBE) and details the assumptions on which CBE is based. It then lists the critical components for effective CBE and cites the advantages of using a…

It is the thesis of this discussion that outcome-based instructional systems (such as mastery learning, individually guided education, and competency-based education) represent a workable alternative to traditional approaches to instruction and are particularly suited to children in Head Start and Follow Through programs. This thesis is expanded…

Because of lack of time and a dearth of specific programs, vocational education administrators have difficulty in acquiring additional education. Three major steps have been taken to remedy this situation: (1) research has been conducted to identify and verify the competencies important to vocational administrators; (2) competency-based modules…

In this book comprised of six chapters, multiple aspects of competency based education (CBE) are discussed contextually by various authors in terms of the current educational climate wherein the primary emphasis is upon learning outcomes rather than the process of learning itself. To illuminate the notion of competence, Chapter 1 presents:…

An overview of the general education programs in higher education is presented and six curricular patterns are discussed. The distribution model requires students to generalize their fields of knowledge to some extent and acquaints students with various modes of discourse. Integrative models aim to draw upon the knowledqe and methodological…

Urban education is beginning to adopt a new focus, based on the ideas that all children can and must become competent in reading, writing, and mathematics, and that this objective can only be achieved by shifting from a "service delivery" approach to one based on the collaboration of students, parents, teachers, and the community. There still…

Discusses the importance of teaching thinking skills in a rapidly changing environment and describes a framework for developing school material that cultivates decision-making skills. An instructional model that describes decision-making strategies, necessary cognitive skills, and the educational objectives for the promotion of each skill is…

A competency-based systems approach to job training is presented that ensures that trainees are taught the knowledge and skills essential for successful job performance. The procedural model for this instructional system is comprised of five phases: analyze, design, develop, implement, and control. Each phase is described in detail. (CT)

Recommendations for a program in rehabilitative optometry include discussion of its need, development of the plan, and competency objectives and their relationship to practice. Also discussed is a plan for program implementation, including organizational and administrative considerations, required resources, residencies, and curriculum goals. (MSE)

Proposes a two-level decision model to evaluate educational programs by types of learners they generate as well as the utility and cost of the program. Decision rules based on the underlying requirement that each learner reach self-sufficiency are described. (Author/BK)

Investigates (1) the impact on business and education of demographic, economic, political, and technical developments; (2) strengths and weaknesses of competency based education; and (3) future implications for business education in terms of job prospects and educational preparation. (SK)

Citing experience with declining ability in Navy personnel, Admiral Rickover calls for a redirection of the schools toward intellectual development, with improved academic standards and objective measures of student performance. He advocates a federal panel to establish model standards and tests in the basic skills. (SJL)

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)

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…