708 - Competency-Based Education: What is it, How Does it Work, and Where Do I Go from Here?

The integration of competency-based education (CBE) in nursing programs has been recommended to address a series of nursing challenges and gaps noted in higher education and graduate preparation. By moving the focus from time-focused content delivery to a student-centered model of learning, nursing education can increase student accountability, develop practice-ready nurses, and foster professional commitment. Through faculty professional development, resource investments, and curriculum redesign, the transition to a curriculum focused upon CBE is possible.

A comprehensive literature review of competency-based education recommendations and data supporting the integration of competency-based education in the curriculum will be presented. In addition, examples of competency-based education within an established nursing curriculum will be shared with the audience.

In response to a call from nursing professional organizations, regulatory bodies, and the healthcare industry to transform nursing education, the integration of competency-based education in the curriculum has become imperative. Nursing programs have an opportunity to shift to a student-centered learning model that best prepares graduates for the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Through faculty professional development, allocation of resources, and curriculum redesign, nursing programs can undertake change to develop graduates who are prepared to meet the realities of practice in the current and future healthcare system.