tappet necromancer: The Engine Behind WGU: Lessons for K-12 Competency-Based ...

The Engine Behind WGU: Lessons for K-12 Competency-Based Learning?Systems

Still busy trying to get things posted, resulting in a busy Thursday and Friday (not sure what tomorrow or Sunday will look like yet).

Dear Michael,
Competency-based learning has become a hot topic in K-12 education. This week Innosight Institute released a new case study by our Senior Research Fellow Heather Staker about the data system that Western Governors University (WGU) uses to support its competency-based learning model. This spotlight on a postsecondary institution provides a reference point for states seeking to implement their own competency-based learning models in the K-12 education sector. The case study, titled ?The engine behind WGU: Configuration of a competency-based information system,? describes the inner-workings and key attributes of WGU?s data system that allows students to not only learn almost entirely online, but also to earn course credits based on demonstrating competency in their course of study. This nontraditional competency-based learning model requires a different systems configuration?one that focuses on tracking a series of high-stakes assessments instead of on tasks that are irrelevant to its model, such as creating class schedules or maintaining attendance records. WGU, which serves more than 30,000 students nationwide, continually implements technical upgrades to improve its student learning experience. As such, the data system serves as a powerful example for states looking to move away from a seat-time-based public K-12 education system to a student-centric option that allows students to move at their own path and pace.
You can download the full case study here.

Sincerely,

Michael B. Horn
Executive Director, Education
Innosight Institute

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