We have introduced a novel approach to competency-based education in mechatronics from the undergraduate to the postgraduate level. What distinguishes this approach is the integration of modeling and control of sampled systems right from the beginning of the undergraduate education. It is achieved by changing the structure of the first-semester…

Many areas of mathematics naturally lend themselves to machine-based computing environments, which suggests that computational environments may serve as useful mediating tools for the teaching and learning of mathematical content. While some mathematics classes are leveraging the use of computational tools, the implementation of computer…

The programme leader is crucial to the success of a higher education provider's educational portfolio. However, programme leader development is under-researched and is too often conceptualised in a negative way, as the solution to a problem. Here we adopt a positive approach by undertaking an Appreciative Inquiry with programme leaders to…

As the Bologna process emerged in the framework of European integration, its objectives are closely linked to the process of voluntary convergence of public policies of members of the European Union. In this context, it can be challenging to understand possible convergence or divergence trends in Bologna member countries that are outside the…

Complex thinking competency enhances the high cognitive capacities necessary for the future of education. This study aimed to analyze these capacities through its sub-competencies (critical, systemic, and scientific thinking). We worked with the Cross Industry Standard Process for Data Mining methodology, with an original database of class data of…

In this study we employed regression analysis and between-group matched pair design to analyze whether participation in a competency-based education pilot was associated with improved high school completion and postsecondary entry. Data were obtained for high schools participating in a CBE pilot program in Illinois. Results of the matched pair…

In pedagogy, it is often emphasized that we need to go beyond the traditional level of teaching and in addition to professional knowledge to integrate skills that support the acquisition of 21st century skills such as problem-solving, creativity and critical thinking, or social skills and emotional intelligence, which are highlighted in the labor…

This paper analyzes the connection between a university's curricular reform and the creative ways in which actors position themselves to respond. The study takes place in a Colombian university that underwent an institutional competency-based curricular reform. This context allows us to question the ways in which different actors perceive and…

The competency-based approach is currently introduced throughout the whole pre-school education system, and this process reveals the uncertainty, doubts, confusion, and unpreparedness of teachers for the implementation of this task. It also highlights the need to provide new guidance for the professional development of in-service teachers. The…

Purpose: The paper aims to provide empirical evidence on whether the identification of the teacher as a role model is truly a key factor in improving students' entrepreneurial competencies and intention. Design/methodology/approach: Data were obtained from a survey of 387 university students enrolled in an entrepreneurship course, who were asked…

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors that influence business students' adoption of e-learning systems by merging innovation diffusion theory (IDT) and the teaching for professional competence model (TPCM). Design/methodology/approach: Snowball sampling was used to conduct the survey. In addition, 217 responses were…

Background/purpose: British, European and American universities are increasingly adopting competency-based learning, yet, there are different and conflicting definitions of competence, competency, and competency-based learning. Consequently, multiple interpretations and understandings are held by educators in respect of what these terms mean, when…

Competency-based learning (CBL) systems are becoming more common in K-12 schools across the United States. A range of studies demonstrate the effectiveness of CBL for students, but less research focuses on the manner in which CBL is being adopted in teacher education. This self-study, using Reform-Oriented Collaborative Inquiry protocol, offers…

This needs assessment identified the competencies, subcompetencies, and tasks to include in the preservice instructor course of the U.S. Air Force's Special Warfare Training Wing. Using the Borich needs assessment model, this study solicited the perceptions of current instructors on the importance of and their preparedness to execute…

In recent years, researchers have highlighted the importance of students' set of soft skills. However, although deemed important, the integration of those skills into educational systems' policy remains ancillary in higher education. This is mainly due to the scant use of competency-based learning activities and the widely used instructional…