Competence and competency in higher education, simple terms yet with complex meanings: Theoretical and practical issues for university teachers and assessors implementing Competency-Based Education (CBE)

Holmes, Andrew G. D.; Polman Tuin, Marc; Turner, Sophie L.

Abstract

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 applied to their own teaching and assessment practices. Whilst UK and American universities are increasingly adopting competency-based learning, unless informed and considered discussion has taken place amongst staff about their individual understandings and interpretations, any development of new, competency-based assessment processes and procedures, is problematic. This paper provides an overview of the main issues involved in defining competency and assessing competence, along with recommendations for action. The purpose is to stimulate reflection and discussion, so that teaching staff can arrive at a common understanding and interpretation of the terminology of competency-based education, so that they may develop appropriate, authentic and fair assessment processes.

Citation

Holmes, A. G. D., Polman Tuin, M., & Turner, S. L. (2021). Competence and competency in higher education, simple terms yet with complex meanings: Theoretical and practical issues for university teachers and assessors implementing Competency-Based Education (CBE). Educational Process: International Journal, 10(3), 39-52. https://doi.org/10.22521/edupij.2021.103.3

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 5, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Jul 15, 2021
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Deposit Date: Apr 1, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 5, 2022
• Journal: Educational Process International Journal
• Print ISSN: 2147-0901
• Electronic ISSN: 2564-8020
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 10
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 39-52
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22521/edupij.2021.103.3
• Keywords: Higher education; Competency; Competence; Competencies; Assessment; Competency-based learning
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/3807880
• Publisher URL: https://edupij.com/index/arsiv/46/227/competence-and-competency-in-higher-education-simple-terms-yet-with-complex-meanings-theoretical-and-practical-issues-for-university-teachers-and-assessors-implementing-competency-based-education-cbe