Compare and Contrast the Mastery Model Definition of CBE and Deeper Learning

Video Transcription

In this tutorial we'll examine competency-based education in light of two educational philosophies, mastery model and deeper learning for all. We'll begin by defining CBE in terms of each of these two philosophies. Next, we'll compare mastery model and deeper learning for all so that we can understand the differences between the two models. Finally, we'll see how personalized learning relates to both mastery model and deeper learning for all. Let's get started.

Let's begin by defining CBE in terms of the mastery model. In design principle one of competency-based education students advance when they demonstrate mastery or proficiency of the current skill. In both CBE and mastery model, students are working at their own levels, possibly with flexible pacing. Teachers are acting as coaches or facilitators in both of these environments, and students are evaluated based on their performance. As students demonstrate mastery, they advance to more rigorous expectations.

Next, let's look at competency-based education in light of the deeper learning for all philosophy. In CBE and deeper learning for all, students are expected to master rigorous academic content. In deeper learning for all, critical thinking skills and complex problem solving skills are emphasized. Students are expected to work together and to learn effective communication skills. Students are self-directed and are expected to respond appropriately to feedback.

There are some definite similarities between mastery model and deeper learning, especially as we use both of them to examine CBE. So let's use this Venn diagram to help us understand the similarities and differences between the two philosophies.

In both philosophies, mastery of skills is emphasized. Both models assess students based on their performance. And the teacher fulfills the role of facilitator or coach.

In mastery model, upon mastery students automatically advance to the next skill on their learning pathway. In contrast, in the deeper learning for all model, upon mastery students are encouraged to dig more deeply into the skill that they just mastered, rather than transitioning to a new, possibly unrelated skill. The now mastered skills are expected to serve as the foundation for more rigorous expectations.

The emphasis on deeper learning for all is on problem solving, communication skills, and collaboration with classmates. In contrast, in mastery model students may be working independently without fostering the communication and collaboration skills that are emphasized in deeper learning.

The concept of personalized learning can be implemented in both mastery model and deeper learning for all. Let's first look at how personalized learning is related to the mastery model. Here are the five principles of personalized learning. The concept of mastery model corresponds to four out of the five personalized learning concepts. The one mismatch is the idea that learning should be authentic and project-based. This is not necessarily true in mastery model.

What about the relationship between personalized learning and deeper learning for all? Once again, here are the five principles of personalized learning. And again, four out of the five concepts match. The difference here is that the focus in deeper learning for all is not on competency- or mastery-based progression and pacing.

Let's recap. In this tutorial we examined competency-based education in light of both mastery model and deeper learning for all. We then used a Venn diagram to help us identify the similarities and differences between mastery model and deeper learning for all. Finally, we saw the relationship between personalized learning and both of these models.

As you reflect on how this new information can be applied, you may want to explore the additional resources section that accompanies this video presentation. This is where you'll find links to resources chosen to help you deepen your learning and explore ways to apply your newly acquired skill set.

Thanks for watching. Have a great day.