Fundamentals of Competency-Based Education in Physical Therapy

Competency-based education in physical therapy (CBEPT) is an approach to educational design where learner professional progression occurs only when competency is demonstrated. While much of the early focus has been within medicine, CBEPT applies to all health professionals. CBEPT assumes a set of standard defined learning performance outcomes for any level of professional practice—students, residents, or practicing physical therapists. The authors discuss the differences between traditional educational models and a CBEPT educational model, review some key terms for a shared language related to CBEPT, and discuss that while competencies and EPAs are different, they are interrelated. This foundational information and shared language will be helpful for educators to begin to prepare for a shift in physical therapy education toward a CBEPT framework.