The Competency-Based Approach to Validating Learning in Higher Ed

Learning is at the heart of higher ed’s purpose, but how many institutions have a strong sense of the skills and knowledge students are gaining? On this episode, Michael and Jeff welcome two innovators helping colleges to better validate student learning through competency-based education (CBE): Amber Garrison Duncan of the Competency Based Education Network and Kelle Parsons of the American Institutes of Research. They discuss the benefits that this learning and assessment system accrues to students and institutions, the how and why of syncing skills certification with employer needs, and the institutions leading the way on implementation. This episode is made with support from Ascendium Education Group.

Season 8 Planning Survey

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Relevant Links

On Prior Learning Assessment/Credit for Prior Learning: 

CAEL: The PLA Boost

AIR Informing Improved Recognition of Military Learning

CBE & Skills Based Practices Brief: 

AIR Same Idea, Different Evolution: Skills-Based Practices and CBE

Other CBE & Skills Based Practices Research

AIR Measuring Skills at Work: Lessons from the Field

AIR Postsecondary CBE Program Model Mapping Tool

AIR 2020 National Survey of Postsecondary CBE

Key Moments

(00:00) Introduction: The Value and Challenges of Higher Education

(06:14) Defining Competency-Based Education and the Role of Assessment

(11:17) Recognizing Prior Learning and the Benefits of CBE

(27:02) Institutions and Organizations Leading the Way in CBE