Abstract
M.Ed. (Curriculum Studies)
It has become imperative for trainers who deal with technical
training to keep pace with progress in the technological world.
The purpose of this research is to make a penetrating analysis of
modular competency - based technical training. The determination
to raise the quality of education probably contributed largely to
the sharp focus on a clearly specified goal determination and on
a specified target formulation. From this competency - based
training originated.
Modular training focuses on the ability of the learner to master
specific skills. In other· words the training programme comprises
a set of learning objectives that are clearly defined so that they
can only be attained if speci.fic actions are carried out. The
training method to be followed is designed and structured as accurately
as possible so that the learner will be able to attain the
required level of competence. The most ~mportant characteristic
of a modular competence-based training programme is that the learner
is expected to master all the learning objectives set for a
particular occupation. A further characteristic of a modular
competence-based training programme is that th~ individual learner
will be held responsible for the successful mastery of learning
objectives, while the trainer manipulates and uses external conditions
in an attempt to ensure that the learner will attain the required
level of mastery. The nature and extent of certain competencies
depend on the learner's ability to master a skill rather
than simply on his ability to demonstrate theoretical knowledge.
Specified competence for a particular occupation consists in mastery
of the skills considered of special importance in that occupation
(Opperman,1988:4/5). The programme content is structured
in definable teaching modules and these modules are arranged in a
continuous progressive training system in which progress is based
on compliance with measurable performance criteria. A teaching
module is a complete instructional unit.