Competency-Based Training (CBT)

Competency-based training (CBT) is an approach to vocational education and training that places emphasis on what a person can do in the workplace as a result of completing a program of training.

Competency standards are sector-determined specifications of performance that set out the knowledge and skills required to operate effectively in a specific industry or profession.

Competency standards are made up of units of competency, which are themselves made up of elements of competency, together with performance criteria, a range of variables, and an evidence guide.

For a person to be assessed competent they need to illustrate an understanding of practice standards expected in employment. CBT focuses on the development of the skills and knowledge required to achieve those competency standards.

One of the primary features of CBT is that each learner’s achievement is measured against the competency standards rather than against the achievement of other learners.