pädevus

Pädevus is Estonian for competence or capability—a person’s proven ability to perform tasks successfully in a given context. The word stems from the adjective pädev, meaning capable, with the noun-forming suffix -us. In educational and professional usage, pädevus describes more than factual knowledge; it encompasses the capacity to apply knowledge and skills to achieve appropriate results.

A pädevus typically comprises knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable performance in authentic tasks. It emphasizes application, problem solving, decision making, responsibility, and collaboration, often requiring autonomy. In Estonia and in European education, pädevus is used in differentiating outcomes: learners are assessed on what they can do rather than what they know alone.

Contexts: In schools, curricula are designed around pädevused (competences) corresponding to learning outcomes; in the workplace, pädevus frameworks guide recruitment and development, competency-based training, and performance management.

Assessment and development: Pädevus is assessed with performance-based tasks, portfolios, demonstrations, or simulations. Developing pädevus involves integrated learning: combining theory with practice, reflective learning, and ongoing professional development.

Related terms: pädevus is closely related to kompetents, though pädevus often stresses the ability to apply in practice in authentic contexts, whereas kompetents may refer to a set of skills. See also lifelong learning and competence-based education.