Competency-based learning can be hard to evaluate due to the fluid and diverse nature the learner will demonstrate their understanding and ability to apply and correlate the skills and knowledge in a career-realistic situation. This is why it is crucial that the instructor provides clear directions and explanations on the evaluations, use rubrics to identify the different areas of assessment and levels of proficiency. When traditional assessment styles, such as written exams, are used its important the instructor uses higher-order thinking skills for the best demonstration of knowledge. Otherwise, lower level questions will only allow a student to demonstrate the beginning stages of cognition (rote) and does not allow instructors to see if their student body has began to understand and apply their knowledge associated with the specific focus of the assessment.
