The Power of Presence: Building Faculty Engagement in the Competency Based Classroom

Online higher education curriculum is evolving to more directly address the needs of students. Competency based learning is part of the change to curriculum from K-12 schools, workforce training, music and art programs, and most recently, higher education. This focus on application and evaluation of learning is a shift from the traditional teacher-centered curriculum and class focus to a student-centered focus in the classroom that mandates a greater presence from faculty. To address the unique advantages and challenges of competency based learning online, this presentation will focus discussion on the dynamics of competency based learning and how to integrate the competencies in classes even when not designated specifically in the curriculum. The presentation will focus on ways to integrate competencies in the classroom, increase faculty presence in the class focusing on the competencies, and create understanding for students of how they directly benefit.