Understanding the Competency-Based Curriculum

The implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum in Kenya was prompted by a variety of factors aimed at transforming the country's education system. The conventional rote-learning method was deemed inadequate in preparing learners for the modern world.

Why the Competency-Based Curriculum?

Kenya is a developing country that is constantly looking for ways to grow. The implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum is one example of such development. The establishment of this framework arose from the need to update and enhance Kenya's education system. The education sector considered that it was equally important to promote knowledge application as it was to promote its acquisition.

The implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum emphasised what learners were expected to do rather than what they were expected to know. For example, it is not enough that students know the process of growing a plant; instead, they could be tasked with sprouting a plant from a bean, which allows them the opportunity to apply the acquired knowledge to real-life scenarios.

What are the seven core competencies of the Competency-Based Curriculum?

1. Communication and collaboration

Language is a tool we use to exchange and convey information with others. Under this curriculum, our learners are able to acquire the skill and ability to exchange with others’ thoughts, information and behaviour. The Competency-Based Curriculum necessitates for collaboration in a number of learning activities. Work can be done in pairs or groups if not the entire class. This encourages learners to speak to one another and be cooperative in order to achieve a common goal.

2. Critical thinking and problem solving

One of the key outcomes of a quality education is a learner's ability to utilise the following critical thinking skills: problem-solving, making judgements and reasoning. This skill is important as it allows learners to constantly evolve their thinking and adapt in the future.

3. Imagination and creativity

A child's mind is rather creative and imaginative in their formative years. The Competency-Based Curriculum capitalises on that aptitude. It encourages learners to convert what is in their imagination into creative materials. It also motivates learners to seek out new ideas and turn them into reality. 

4. Citizenship

A community is a group of people who share a common belief or identity. This shared identity is often anchored by subcommunities. The more the group of people in this community grows, the more set of values they share. Once they are governed by a political, economic, social and religious framework, they become citizens. They experience a sense of belonging and patriotism - wanting to uphold what is right and condemn wrong behaviour. The Competency-Based curriculum encourages our learners to understand their role as members of a larger community.

5. Learning to learn

Learning is a never-ending endeavour. Acquiring new information allows one to become a better decision maker and problem solver. The Competency-Based Curriculum encourages our teachers to teach learners how to think and not what to think, which means learners will develop an inclination to seek new information, even outside the confines of the school system.

6. Self-efficacy

This competency ensures that learners are capable of independently completing tasks successfully. This means that a learner can take a difficult task and break it down into its smaller components for better understanding without rely heavily on their teacher. The by-product of this skill is that the learner demonstrates a high self-esteem and increased confidence.

7. Digital literacy

One advantage the current generation enjoys is being digitally savvy. Children are able to navigate their way on digital devices with ease. Digital literacy is measured by learner's ability to safely and cleverly use hardware and software technology to access information. In a world where tech becomes quickly obsolete, learners who are prepared for change adapt quicker.

What is the difference between Competency-Based Assessment and Competency-Based Curriculum?

Competency-Based assessment is the process that determines the learner’s aptitude for acquired knowledge, skills and values. The two types of Competency-Based assessments are formative assessment and summative assessment.

Competency-Based Curriulum on the other hand is the education framework that guides the teaching process. Makini School has emerged as a pioneer in the adoption and execution of Competency-Based curriculum in Kenya. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, our school has seamlessly integrated the Competency-Based Curriculum principles into its teaching methodologies.

Through continuous professional development, Makini School equips its educators with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively deliver the Competency-Based Curriculum. This dedication to quality education is exemplified by the school's tailored approach to curriculum delivery, ensuring that learners' unique learning needs are always met.