Kompetenciakeret

Kompetenciakeret is a term used in Nordic education and training to describe a framework in which learning outcomes are organized around defined competences. A competence consists of the knowledge, skills, and abilities a learner must demonstrate to perform tasks in real situations. The kompetenciakeret approach focuses on what learners can do, rather than only what they know.

In practice, it structures curricula and assessments around core competences for a field or program. It is common in vocational education and training, professional certification, and increasingly in higher education. Courses aim to develop specific competences, and assessments rely on performance tasks, projects, portfolios, or simulations, often with rubrics that state mastery levels.

Implementation typically involves: defining core competences aligned with national qualifications frameworks or industry standards; mapping learning activities to those competences; using performance-based assessment to verify competence; enabling flexible progression and recognition of prior learning; and ensuring transparent validation of assessment.

Supporters cite clearer learning pathways, relevance to work, and easier comparability across programs. Critics warn of potential oversimplification, fragmentation of knowledge, and challenges in reliably assessing complex competences.

See also: Competence-based education, outcome-based education, national qualifications frameworks, performance assessment, portfolio assessment.