Competency-based education: A breakthrough in schools

Schools transitioning to competency-based education is a significant step towards revolutionising the entire learning experience for the students.

Steering away from the rote method of learning, it focuses on practical knowledge with real-life applications that are in alignment with industrial requirements.

It demonstrates an inclination for skill-based learning, aiming to bridge the gap between academia and professional needs necessary in a workspace.

Gauging the progressive nature of competency-based education, the National Education Policy (NEP) was introduced to reinforce the commitment to augment the performance of the students.

Well-defined competencies

CBE programmes focus on clearly defined competencies, which outline the specific skills and knowledge students are expected to excel in. These competencies are measurable and designed in resonance with industry standards, ensuring students are well-equipped to navigate the dynamic terrain with sheer confidence in the future.

This, in turn, guarantees the imbibition of relevant skills necessary for jobs, which can help students progress in their careers and emerge successful in their future endeavours.

Personalised learning

Competency-based education facilitates personalised learning to enable students to progress at their own pace. Considering that each student comes with his/her own learning capacity to retain knowledge, it tailors the lessons based on their calibre and allows time to gain expertise in the particular topic before moving ahead.

In the process, it also takes into account the strengths and weaknesses of the students to enhance their performance aimed at driving optimal results.

Breaking free from the one-size-fits-all approach, it focuses on customizing lessons, resources, teaching pedagogy, practice tests, revision plans, etc., to maximize the long-term retention of the students.

Life-long learning

This mode of education fosters a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging students to always stay abreast of the latest developments in the world.

Given the rapid rate at which industries are transforming and technologies are evolving, it becomes essential to continue the learning process and upgrade the skills to exercise a competitive edge over others.

Therefore, looking at the advantages of competency-based education, it can be considered the way forward in the education sector.

Striving to drive the holistic development of the students, it aims to optimise their performance by enhancing their retention power and encouraging a better understanding of the topics.

Variable assessment methods

•  The traditional education system majorly relies on exams or assignments to evaluate the performance of students. It primarily hinges on the ability of students to memorise the lessons with an emphasis on the theoretical mode of learning.
• However, with the industries evolving at a fast pace, there is a need to go beyond the traditional mode of learning. Here, competency-based education comes in handy for driving a more in-depth and practical way of learning. It focuses on the holistic development of the students by assessing them on numerous parameters entailing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• It enhances their competencies with respect to fast-paced and complex workplace setups, making them future-ready for tackling real-world problems.

The writer is Principal, Venkateshwar International School, Sector 10, Dwarka