Competency Based Education and Curriculum Reform

Abstract

Competency-based education (CBE) has emerged as a transformative approach to teaching and learning, emphasizing mastery of clearly defined skills, knowledge, and professional attributes rather than time-based progression. This comprehensive review examines the principles, models, and implementation strategies of CBE, highlighting its role in driving curriculum reform across diverse educational fields, including health professions, teacher education, engineering, and vocational training. The article explores pedagogical strategies, assessment frameworks, benefits, and challenges associated with CBE, emphasizing the importance of authentic, performance-based evaluation, learner-centered approaches, and technology integration. Additionally, it discusses best practices for curriculum design, faculty development, and stakeholder engagement, while considering future directions such as micro-credentials, adaptive learning technologies, interprofessional frameworks, and equity-centered implementation. This review underscores the potential of CBE to enhance educational relevance, workforce readiness, and lifelong learning in contemporary and future learning environments.