In competency-based education, what allows candidates to progress through courses?

In competency-based education, progression through courses is fundamentally linked to demonstrating mastery of the material. This model prioritizes a learner's ability to show they understand and can apply the knowledge and skills being taught rather than adhering to traditional markers of progress, such as time spent in class or age-related grade levels.

Mastery means that students must demonstrate proficiency in the subject matter before moving on to more advanced concepts. This approach supports personalized learning paths, allowing students to advance at their own pace based on their individual learning capabilities. As a result, those who quickly grasp the material can move forward without being held back, while others who need more time to learn can take that time without pressure. This is a hallmark of competency-based education, making it clear that the focus is on what the student knows and can do, rather than on when they are supposed to complete a course.