Education today offers options. Competency and outcomes-based education are powerful approaches that cater directly to learners’ needs. At Zollikon Institute, in collaboration with Kairos University, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, we’re excited to offer degree programs that are based on these innovative models. This partnership provides a supportive environment for our students to blend their Anabaptist faith and life experiences into their learning journey. Let’s take a closer look at how these programs are changing education, with a focus on how these programs can help our students make a difference to their communities and beyond.
Understanding Competency-Based Education
Competency-based education (CBE) is reshaping learning. CBE emphasizes mastering skills rather than staying in college for a certain amount of time. This approach puts students in control, allowing them to move forward when they master a skill, creating a personalized and efficient learning experience.
CBE’s roots trace back to early vocational training. Today, it is a key part of educational change, aligning education with real-world demands. It’s all about ensuring that learning leads to practical, measurable skills.
How Competency Models Operate
Competency-based education operates by:
- Working with experts to pinpoint clear skills or competencies.
- Designing tools to accurately measure skills.
- Letting our students choose how they learn.
- Mentors our students throughout the learning process.
This ensures our students not only gain knowledge but also skills they will need for their life’s work.
Benefits of Competency-Based Education
There are lots of upsides to CBE for everyone involved:
- Our students can progress at their own speed, focusing on areas needing the most attention.
- Our students can zip through what’s already familiar, diving deeper into complex topics.
- Our students aren’t just knowledgeable; they’re ready for real-world challenges.
- Potentially quicker completion means cost savings.
CBE is a great fit for anyone seeking a more tailored learning experience.
Exploring Outcomes-Based Education
Outcomes-based education (OBE) is closely related to CBE but has its own flair. It’s about focusing on what students should be able to do with what they’ve learned by time they earn a degree.
Starting with the end in mind, OBE designs curriculum backward. First, we set the goals for our students. Then, we build the learning experiences and assessments to get them there.
Key Elements of Outcomes-Based Programs
Outcomes-based programs consist of:
- Specific, measurable goals. Our students “begin with the end in mind”.
- Multiple ways to show mastery of outcomes. Our students can be flexible.
- Regular checks on progress. Our students meet with mentors often.
- Continuous feedback and support to help our students reach learning goals.
These elements create an inclusive and goal-driven environment for students.
Advantages of Outcomes-Based Education
Here’s why OBE is a win-win:
- Our students know exactly what’s required.
- Learning outcomes align with real-world skills.
- Different paths to mastery – our students have learning styles.
- Clear goals also mean clear tracking of program success.
OBE provides a focused, effective educational path with practical outcomes.
Zollikon Institute’s Innovative Partnership
Zollikon Institute‘s partnership with Kairos University combines our students’ Anabaptist faith with practical skill-building, driving a transformative educational journey.
Degrees in Collaboration with Kairos University
Combining competency-based and outcomes-based principles, our joint programs are challenging and practical. Students engage with a curriculum that’s flexible, letting them advance at their own pace, ensuring key competencies and outcomes are met.
This approach prepares students for more than just careers; it equips them for meaningful lives of service and impact.
Learning in Community with Trusted Leaders
At Zollikon Institute, learning is a shared experience. Our students engage with trusted leaders in ministry/missions and business. They build valuable relationships with experienced mentors. It’s a collaborative, discussion-rich environment preparing students for real-world challenges.
Integrating Faith, Knowledge, and Experience
Our programs weave together faith, mentoring, student life, community, academic knowledge, and personal growth. Learning is seen as a part of the broader journey of life. Learning is not just an experience. Bringing our students’ prior experiences and Anabaptist faith into the curriculum creates a more meaningful environment, preparing our students for personal, spiritual, and professional growth that has a lasting community impact for the glory of God.