Competency Based Learning

Competency Based Learning (CBL) is set to paved the way forward for corporate training in Singapore over the next five years.

Agreed. The idea is not new. What is new is the strategic framework and the industrial-wide implementation guide currently being put in place by the Workforce Devel0pment Agency (WDA) in Singapore. Since the anouncement by the the Chief Executive of WDA in September 2004, the pilot programme was launched in January 2005. Called the Employability Skills System (ESS), the ESS comprsies 10 employability skills: Workplace Literacy and Numeracy, Information and Communications Technologies, Problem Solving and Decision Making, initiative and enterprise, Communications and Relationship Management, Lifelong Learning, Global Mindset, Self-management, work-related life skills and Health and workplace Safety.

About 10 service providers in Singapore have the head-start in developing competency based training modules to support ESS. Another 8 to 10 more service providers are getting themselves ready by attending the train-the-trainer session now being conducted by WDA. The challenge for each of the players is to develop high quality competency-based learning material subject to approval by WDA. Service providers are still learning the ropes and there is ample room for improvement over time. It would make sense for these service providers to leverage on more established curriculum developers from overseas to make the leap forward. Alternatively, there should be some form of forum to connect them together so that there is greater exchange of infiormation and sharing of experience. Whichever the case, CBL approach is here to stay and training service providers in Singapore must submit themselves to the more rigorious demand of CBL to carry the standard of training development and learning development one level higher. Its a step in the right direction.

We are privileged to be part of the pioneers in CBL curriculum in Singapore. We have completed a series of ESS training modules for a UK-based Training Instituion and we are currently developing a CBL Training Programme for a new Human Resource Profiling Tool known as the Motivation, Ability and Personality Rating System (MAP) developed by Sigma-Solutions and Value Based Management System (VBM) developed by Think Masters.

For my inaugural contribution, I would like to share my defintion of competency

DEFINITION OF COMPETENCY

Competency is an acquired capability of an individual to drive performance towards a personal or an organisational goal.

This capability must be demonstrated with consistency at a specific level under pre-determined criteria or standards.

A competency may comprise knowledge, skill and attribute.