Competence-Based Training in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Keeping students engaged and motivated in higher institutions of learning is challenging, even for the most experienced professors. Although it is difficult to prescribe a “one-size-fits-all” approach, research shows that there are practices that will generally encourage students to be more engaged. These practices include moving away from rote learning and memorisation to providing more challenging, complex work; having different approached and encouraging cooperative learning. Competency-based training has been shown to provide a number of advantages in ensuring that the trainees are equipped with knowledge and skill in specific areas at workplace. In this paper, we advance and discuss descriptively a new approach for teaching microprocessor course unit using simulation software freely available on the Internet using project-based training that is well rooted in competency-based training. This approach allows students the opportunity to learn to use the microprocessor as a tool for solving engineering problems and not just for them to understand the architecture of the microprocessor. The approach consists of shifting the focus of the course from the microprocessor itself to learning the application the microprocessor is used for as a tool to solve practical engineering problems. Ideas to facilitate implementation of the approach are raised and we finally discuss some of the benefits to engineering education.