What differentiates competency-based education (CBE) from traditional education?

Competency-based education (CBE) is defined by its emphasis on assessing students based on their ability to demonstrate mastery of a subject or skill, rather than simply tracking the amount of time spent in a classroom setting. This approach allows learners to progress at their own pace, advancing through the curriculum as they demonstrate their understanding and capability in specific areas. This focus on mastery ensures that students are truly grasping the concepts and skills before moving forward, thus creating a more personalized educational experience.

In contrast to traditional education, which typically involves fixed schedules and relies heavily on time spent in class and standardized assessments, CBE prioritizes achieving outcomes over adherence to a predetermined timeline. This shift means that learners can spend as much time as they need on challenging materials until they have confidently mastered the content. As a result, competency-based education is designed to cater to individual learning speeds and styles, promoting deeper understanding and retention of knowledge.