competency-based education

4 critical issues for competency-based education programs


Competency-based education programs are spreading, and program design is more important than ever

As K-12 competency-based education programs become more widespread, educators and policymakers would do well to focus on four key issues that can make or break high-quality programs, according to a new report.

The CompetencyWorks report, Quality and Equity by Design: Charting the Course for the Next Phase of Competency-Based Education, calls for creating competency-based systems in which the culture, structure, policies, and instructional practices fully support each and every student in their journey toward preparation for college, career, and life.

“K-12 education in the United States and across the world is at a turning point, and we have an opportunity to redesign K-12 education to serve every student,” saysSusan Patrick, CompetencyWorks co-founder and iNACOL president and CEO.

“Competency education systems prepare all students to graduate high school with the academic and lifelong-learning skills to be leaders in their communities, visionaries, and agents of their own success–whether in college, career, or navigating the opportunities and challenges they will encounter in their lives.”

Next page: The four critical competency-based education program components

Laura Ascione

Want to share a great resource? Let us know at submissions@eschoolmedia.com.