Exploring K-12 Competency-Based Education Implementation in the Northeast States

Abstract

This exploratory study uses data from 413 principals to examine whether and how competency-based education has been implemented in the Northeast states and the extent to which there is variation in implementation between states with different policies. Results suggest that competency-based practices that are most similar to current practices are reported more and practices that diverge from current practices are reported less. There were statistically significant differences between states with “advanced” and nonexistent competency-based education policies on three measures. Secondary principals could use this study to understand key features of the reform and the likely barriers and challenges to implementation regardless of their state policy context.