Competency-Based Education and Training in Psychology: A Primer - Softcover

As educators and supervisors, competency is something that has often been assumed. If an individual passed knowledge-based tests or spent a certain amount of time on rotation in an applied setting, it was accepted that they were competent to perform related tasks. However, training in psychology at the graduate and internship levels has been altered by accreditation standards. Increased attention is being given to the competency of the trainee. Is the student able to perform at a specified level? This perspective requires a modification in both teaching and assessment. The authors of this text have elected to take on the task of bringing a variety of aspects of competency to the forefront. This is so that those who provide training in psychology can decide how to best utilize the concept of competency within their institution. This text is able to offer information and ideas to consider before altering a program to adopt the competency-based model. The reader can expect this book to assist with (1) identifying areas of training where issues of competency should be applied, (2) reviewing how others in various disciplines have begun to address competency, (3) providing information on the available materials to assess competency, and (4) allowing for a discussion of the topic so that educators/supervisors can begin to implement this in the manner that best suits their setting and goals. Developing strategies to train to, and assess, competency can be daunting. This book is quick, insightful, informative reading and can give direction when beginning the process. It will be of interest to graduate faculty in psychology programs and internship staff members, as well as directors of training in academic or applied settings, clinical and counseling psychology students, school psychologists, and courses dealing with training in psychology.