The competency based training model focuses on developing skills and knowledge that are necessary for job performance rather than simply completing courses and getting certificates. It is learner-centered and aims at ensuring that learners demonstrate their competence in specific areas. The system is designed to be flexible and personalized, and it allows learners to learn at their own pace.
The new system has successfully replaced the traditional approach of measuring success through time spent on courses and number of credits earned. In the competency based training model, learners are assessed based on their ability to demonstrate their proficiency in particular competencies or skills. In other words, completion of a course is not a requirement for progress as long as the learner has gained the necessary skills and knowledge.
The competency based training model primarily focuses on outcomes-based assessment, which ensures that learners are able to demonstrate what they learned in practical applications. Unlike traditional assessments that often take place at the end of a course or curriculum, competency-based assessments are often given at regular intervals throughout the learning process to ensure learners are staying on track.
The new system’s holistic approach to learning allows learners to develop a broad range of skills that employers are looking for in today’s job market. Employers are now looking for candidates who can demonstrate their skills in real-time, not just those who have earned a degree. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers NACE, employers are placing more emphasis on competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.
Many educational institutions have already started implementing the new system in their curriculum. For instance, Southern New Hampshire University SNHU has been able to achieve significant success. 98 percent of students enrolled in SNHU’s competency based degree programs are employed shortly after graduation, and the median salary is much higher than the national median for college graduates.
The new system has also proved to be a viable option for people who are seeking training for specific job skills. For instance, Galvanize, a technology-focused education company based in Denver, offers a 24-week data science boot camp that trains students in data collection, modeling, and analysis. Their curriculum is competency-driven and emphasizes project-based learning to encourage active engagement with real-world data problems. Graduates from Galvanize’s data science boot camp have landed jobs in leading companies such as IBM, Google, and Microsoft.
The competency based training model has been successful in transforming learning into a more practical experience. The new approach helps learners gain skills in learning environments that mimic real-world job scenarios. They are given the chance to practice and apply their skills to solve real-world problems. This approach could prove revolutionary in training the next generation of workers in various industries.
The future of learning is toppling the traditional content-based teaching system. Competency based training model is an innovative approach to training that focuses on the outcomes of the learning process. It provides learners with timely and relevant feedback on their progress and helps them develop competencies that are necessary for job performance. Embracing this new approach in education and training institutions offers a new window of opportunities for the job market.
