Kompetenční vzdělávání

Competency-Based Education: Principles and Practice

Competency-based education (CBE) is an educational approach centered on the development and demonstration of specific skills, knowledge, and abilities—termed “competencies”—that students must master to progress through or complete an educational program. Unlike traditional time-based models, where advancement is linked to the successful completion of courses within set timeframes, CBE allows learners to move at their own pace, progressing as soon as they demonstrate mastery of clearly defined learning outcomes. This approach responds to diverse learner needs, prior knowledge, and learning speeds, and emphasizes measurable results over time spent in classrooms.

The core of competency-based education lies in identifying and articulating precise competencies aligned with academic knowledge, practical skills, and professional dispositions relevant to a given discipline or occupation. These competencies are deeply rooted in real-world demands and are typically informed by collaboration between educators, industry professionals, and relevant stakeholders. Assessment in CBE is criterion-referenced and performance-oriented. Instead of relying exclusively on summative tests, CBE utilizes projects, portfolios, simulations, and other authentic assessment strategies to provide tangible evidence of student proficiency. This structure ensures that graduates are equipped not only with theoretical understanding but also with the practical abilities required for workplace success.

The implementation of competency-based education brings numerous benefits and challenges. On the positive side, CBE increases transparency in learning goals, allows for flexible learning pathways, and supports personalized instruction. It is particularly effective in adult education, vocational training, and professional development settings, where learners benefit from the ability to leverage prior experiences and accelerate their progress. However, successful execution of CBE requires investment in curriculum redesign, faculty training, robust assessment mechanisms, and supportive technologies. Moreover, shifting to a competency-driven culture necessitates careful change management and ongoing stakeholder engagement. Despite these challenges, competency-based education is increasingly seen as a vital model for equipping learners with the adaptive, demonstrated skills essential in today’s fast-evolving, knowledge-driven society. 

PhDr. Pavel Bartoš, LL.M., DBA (Evropská akademie vzdělávání / European Academy of education)