Tips for Succeeding In a Competency-Based Program

As a national leader in competency-based education (CBE) delivery, Lakeshore College strives to support success among our students enrolled in CBE programs. CBE is different from the delivery of traditional instruction. It offers a great deal of flexibility and allows students to earn a degree based on their mastery of skills and knowledge rather than through a dedicated amount of time spent in a classroom.

Because of the differences in a program delivered through CBE, succeeding requires a different approach to managing coursework.

The flexibility CBE offers requires time management skills. By staying proactive and managing their time well, students can succeed at mastering the skills and knowledge required in their programs in a timely manner.

We’ve asked some of our faculty and brightest students to share their best tips for success in a CBE program. Here are their tips for managing CBE’s three main components: progress at your own pace, flexibility, and receive personalized coaching and support.

Progress at Your Own Pace

The competency-based education model allows you to demonstrate knowledge when you are ready. While you will need to stay on pace to finish your courses, flexibility is allowed when life gets in the way, knowing that you can work on your time to still finish in time. CBE focuses on knowledge and competence versus time spent in class.

Tips:

• CBE requires self-discipline and high motivation. Set things in place to help you stay focused and motivated if necessary. 
• You can go faster if you’re comfortable, but you also have time to slow down and get extra help.
• Since you’re working at your own pace, you are responsible for staying engaged.
• If you struggle, don’t wait – seek help early from your instructors, classmates, or advisor.

Flexibility

CBE has the flexibility to accelerate your learning to achieve mastery of competencies faster, or to learn at the traditional pace.

Tips:

• Know your priorities and plan accordingly for good time management.
• Using a planner to see where your time goes is extremely helpful.
• Plan specific weekly times to study, watch lectures, and complete assignments.
• Since CBE is so flexible, it’s easy to put things off. Don’t fall into that trap.

Receive Personalized Coaching & Support  

Every student has a success team who is with you every step of the way through your educational journey. Whether signing up for classes, navigating college life, helping with homework, or asking questions, the team at Lakeshore is happy and ready to support you.

Tips:

• Embrace time on campus. You may be surprised at how helpful it is to be in an environment where you can focus and receive true person-to-person support to successfully complete coursework.

• Review your syllabus and grading rubrics right away.
• Use all available resources: videos, discussion boards, tutoring, writing centers, tech support, etc. Your instructor’s feedback isn’t just a grade – it’s a guide to help you improve.
• Review your mistakes and make corrections, that’s how you build mastery.