Competency-based education, often abbreviated as CBE, is an innovative approach to learning that focuses on what a student knows and can do rather than how much time they spend in a classroom. It's a student-centered approach that tailors education to individual needs and ensures that students acquire specific skills and knowledge before moving on to more advanced topics. 

In a competency-based education system:

• Learning is Personalized: Each student progresses at their own pace. They can move faster through material they grasp quickly and spend more time on areas where they need additional support.

• Mastery is Key: Students are required to demonstrate their mastery of specific skills or knowledge areas, known as competencies, before moving to the next level or topic. This means that they might have to retake certain assessments until they achieve a high level of proficiency. This opportunity to revise work and resubmit projects and presentations pushes student learning and retention to higher levels.

• Flexible Learning Pathways: CBE allows students to choose from a variety of learning resources and methods, such as online courses, hands-on projects, or traditional classroom instruction, to achieve their learning goals.

• Real-World Application: Competencies are aligned with real-world skills and knowledge that are relevant to students' future careers or life goals. This makes education more practical and applicable.

• Continuous Progress Tracking: Student progress is tracked closely, providing timely feedback and support to help them succeed.

• Lifelong Learning Emphasis: CBE instills a mindset of continuous learning, as students are encouraged to build on their competencies throughout their lives.

Overall, competency-based education is designed to ensure that students are well-prepared with the practical skills and knowledge they need for success in their chosen fields, rather than merely progressing through a set curriculum based on time spent in a classroom. It promotes a deeper understanding of subjects and a focus on true mastery, which can lead to more effective and relevant education outcomes.