We cannot simply assess or grade students to a higher standard without the necessary instructional support in place

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The ProficiencyBuilder Model is perhaps most useful for the individual instructor to implement a competency-based approach to grading. Before learning exactly how to do this, we need to take a quick look at how assessment as a whole is approached. Of course, applying an agricultural-related adage, "feed the pig, don’t just weight it”, we cannot simply assess or grade students to a higher standard without the necessary instructional support in place; if we make changes to classroom assessment, there are implications with instructional strategies.

 

This instructor-level part of the model can be categorized into two areas: assessment and instructional strategies.

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Assessment

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Before learning the steps you'll take to to convert to competency-based learning in your classroom, let's review how grading and assessment as a whole is approached.

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You will...

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• Abandon traditional grading systems of points and weighted categories

• Require demonstrated competency of each student learning outcome to determine readiness

• Emphasize relevant, motivating assessments 

• Implement multiple opportunities via a reassessment plan

• Update course assessments to reflect application over knowledge

• Isolate homework and participation from performance on outcomes

• Consider "proficiency stages"

• Prescribe meaningful correct feedback

• Set up your gradebook to reflect notions of competency

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Instructional Strategies

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You will..

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• Incorporate communicative language teaching (CLT) strategies

• Design learning activities that focus on the application of skills and knowledge to real-world contexts

• Align your learning activities to support the course competencies (student learning outcomes)

• ​Minimize traditional instruction (i.e. lecture)

• "Flip" the classroom, or move "instructional" content online, when possible

• Provide communicative practice in addition to individualized support during class time

• Pursue professional development opportunities relating to teaching and learning of world languages (i.e. second language acquisition theory, methodology, assessment, and curriculum development)

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Are you ready to get stared? Convert your classroom to competency-based learning in 15 steps. Click below to begin.

 

 

 

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Interested in converting your entire program to competency-based learning? Click here: Program Level.

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