Competency Based Training and Assessment

I was first introduced to competency based training and assessment in 2009. At that time, I just started a company with 3 partners. We named the company "Metropolitan FM Solutions" as a subsidiary to "Metropolitan Green Design and Technology" which belongs to one of the 3 partners. When we started the company, we had a vision of venturing into training in Facilities Management. There was some discussion with another training provider on this partnership and hence, I was introduced to Competency Based Training and Assessment.

I was impressed with competency based programs. Some of its advantages are;
1. It's designed specifically to a particular task/job scope.
With that, I think there is learners will be more focused.

2. Benchmark
A competency based program has a minimum benchmark that needs to be met. Hence, learners will have a certain standard upon completion.

3. Evidence-based
Evidence has to be collected in order to justify a candidate's competency. Hence it becomes very clear and distinct.

4. Useful for career progression
This is a useful tool for performance management.

However, like all, things, there is always another side of the coin. No man-made system is perfect. Some of its disadvantages are;
1. Cost
a. Time - A competency based program requires validation. Validation requires professionals and consultation. When there is such a process, time becomes a factor.
b. Logistics - Competency based programs involve different tools for assessment. There are the different types of checklists, forms, scripts(for roleplays), etc. These results then require a storage or data management system.

2. Useful as long as the 'tides' do not change.
We have seen how technology, government regulations and economy affects certain industry down to the specific job scopes. A competency based program seems to remain relevant as long as external and internal factors remained status quo. When affected, the program might be revised and this results in another round of  validation.

3. Dependent of Assessment Tools
Assessors do not have the flexibility to use the different types of tools available and are only limited to the tools specifically mentioned by the assessment program developer.

4. Dependent on the knowledge and experience of the program developer and team of consultants involved.
I personally feel that the difficulty of the people on the ground are often ignored as they rarely are involved in the program development.

Will I recommend using a Competency-Based Program? Well, i think a competency based program will be helpful as far as tasks are concerned. Managing this is an investment in terms of time and cost. Putting survival of low level workers as priority, i would recommend a competency based program as it helps those without paper qualification improve the quality and delivery of their job.