A Study of Competency Based Teacher Education. Philosophy, Research, Issues, Models

Abstract

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the competency based teacher education (CBTE) approach. The individual papers comprising the chapters were written at different times, but collectively they provide a sequential introduction and analysis of the concept. A chapter on definitions provides a system for analyzing a CBTE program by separating it into its components and defines Competency Based Teacher Certification (CBTC). Additional chapters provide dialogue both pro and con concerning the competency approach and specific aspects of it and an in-depth study of assessment, which some writers have identified as the most significant issue in competency based teacher education, at least in terms of its implementation. Models are described to provide the reader with examples of how the concept might be applied at two different levels--one for state agency personnel and the other for the development of staff in elementary and secondary schools. A model for a preservice CBTE program is omitted, but the text does contain descriptions and a discussion of such a program. (SK)