Competency based assessment: Is the case proven for application to business programmes?

This article examines the origins of competency based assessment, including its philosophies and intentions. The body of literature which supports and which criticises it is critiqued, together with the experiences of those who have been involved in the practical implementation of competence based programmes. The realities of implementing NZQA's intentions are then reviewed in the light of the experiences of staff involved in Framework based programmes. Questions are raised regarding the suitability of the New Zealand Diploma in Business in providing a base for a more holistic definition of competency based business education.