What defines competency-based education (CBE)?

Competency-based education (CBE) is characterized by a mastery learning approach that allows students to progress through their educational programs upon demonstrating that they have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills. This model prioritizes the demonstration of competencies over the traditional time-based structure of education. In CBE, learners advance as they master specific competencies, allowing for a more personalized learning experience that can accommodate individual pacing and learning styles. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of material, as students can take the time they need to achieve mastery before moving on to the next concept or skill. The focus on demonstrated proficiency ensures that students not only complete courses but do so with a solid grasp of the material, preparing them more effectively for real-world applications.