7.4: Mastery-Based Approach

[Adopt] a "mastery-based" approach.

Other Information:

The problem with time-based approaches is that they equate time spent with subject area knowledge. They assume that if students have enough face-time with instructors on a particular topic, most of them will meet minimum performance standards at the end of the course. However, this logic is flawed at both ends of the education spectrum. There are some students who need more time to master specific subjects and there are others who can learn the material in a shorter period of time. We need a "mastery-based" approach that works better than one based on time. Right now, education funding is determined by the "average daily attendance." This means that schools that incorporate online learning or have students who can master material in less time than required by seat-time measures, are penalized financially for these innovations. They end up with fewer budgetary resources even though their systems may make more efficient use of education dollars.

Stakeholder(s):

• David Friedman: In general, according to our forum participant David Friedman, a law professor at Santa Clara University, "we need to move to a model based on ability, not credentials."


• Santa Clara University


• State of Louisiana: States such as Louisiana have ended the seat-time requirement in favor of distance learning. Students who demonstrate mastery of educational materials are allowed to advance in virtual instruction based on their interest and ability. For some subjects, student performance has been higher than through conventional classes. In algebra courses, for example, students in virtual schools earned test scores of 710, compared to 688 for those attending traditional schools, controlling for relevant factors.

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

Content