Creating Learning Opportunities With Work Readiness in Mind

While we may not be able to predict the types of jobs that will exist in the future, we know that students will need a variety of skills to match these evolving needs. So, how do we create learning opportunities that not only teach students valuable skills but also serve the workforce?

Solution: Competency-Based Education

Competency-based education (CBE) is a learning model built with “work readiness” in mind. CBE programs often award a degree or certificate, but what differentiates them is that the competencies learned are as important as the credential itself. The courses, assessments, and learning pathways that make up these programs are centered on what is expected of professionals in a specific industry or job. CBE programs are based on a strategic partnership with employers and industry in order to produce learning experiences that are relevant to and align with today’s job market.

CBE Programs to Develop and Build on Student Skills

CBE programs are not limited solely to undergraduate degrees in universities and colleges. Rather, this educational model opens the door for a variety of programs, to help develop and build on student skills. Below we outline four academic and educational qualifications that can use CBE.

Micro-Credentials

Micro-credentials are an alternative way to integrate competency-based education. Micro-credentials can be called “mini qualifications.” They are a form of certification that demonstrates the mastery of relevant skills, knowledge, and competencies. CBE micro-credentials can function as an effective type of professional development, providing students and working professionals with new skills and strategies to effectively meet the needs of a changing workforce.

Stackable Credentials

Stackable credentials can be earned to help learners build on their qualifications and move along career paths. With this type of learning, students can start with one credential achievement and work their way up to a higher-level credential by building on specific skills. Stackable credentials also allow academic institutions to offer incremental milestones such as badges on the path to completion. The overall structure of these types of credentials allows learners to build on in-demand skills while also working.

Nondegree Credentials

Nondegree credentials are certificates or programs that are typically offered through community colleges, technical schools, and professional or trade associations to provide professionally oriented training. The output of these programs consists of badges, licenses, and short-term certificates that help students demonstrate the applied knowledge and competencies they have achieved.

CBE Certificates

CBE certificates focus on measuring how much a student has learned rather than the time he or she spends trying to learn. These certificate programs differ from traditional higher education programs in that the time to complete these programs rests on a learner’s prior knowledge and experience along with how many classes he or she enrolls in per semester. These certificates can help working professionals learn new skills and expand their knowledge base without disrupting the work they’re already doing. Earning certificates can also support students and new graduates in starting a new career by gaining new skills.

How Higher Education Institutions Are Creating Sustainable CBE Programs

Like other innovative education models, CBE is a business model that requires a good deal of planning, preparation, negotiation, institutional resources and commitment. Ultimately, it can being benefits for everyone—helping to prepare people for the jobs and workplaces of the future.

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