How can you align CBE programs with state standards?

1 Understand the standards

The first step is to understand the state standards for your subject and grade level. You can find them on your state's department of education website or through other online resources. State standards are usually organized by domains, strands, clusters, and indicators, which represent the major topics, subtopics, categories, and specific skills and knowledge within each subject. You need to familiarize yourself with the language, structure, and level of detail of the standards, as well as the rationale and purpose behind them.

2 Map the competencies

The next step is to map the competencies that you want your learners to achieve in your CBE program. Competencies are the observable and measurable abilities that demonstrate mastery of a skill or knowledge. They are usually expressed as statements that describe what learners can do, such as "I can write a persuasive essay" or "I can solve linear equations". You need to define the competencies clearly, concisely, and consistently, and align them with the relevant state standards. You can use a competency map or a matrix to show the alignment between the competencies and the standards, and to identify any gaps or overlaps.

3 Design the assessments

The third step is to design the assessments that will measure and document the learners' progress and achievement of the competencies. Assessments are the tools and methods that you use to collect evidence of learning, such as quizzes, projects, portfolios, or performance tasks. You need to ensure that the assessments are valid, reliable, and aligned with both the competencies and the standards. You also need to establish the criteria and rubrics that will determine the level of mastery for each competency, and communicate them clearly to the learners.

4 Create the learning experiences

The fourth step is to create the learning experiences that will support and facilitate the learners' development of the competencies. Learning experiences are the activities and resources that you provide to the learners, such as lectures, videos, readings, discussions, or simulations. You need to ensure that the learning experiences are engaging, relevant, and aligned with both the competencies and the standards. You also need to offer multiple options and pathways for the learners to access and interact with the learning experiences, according to their needs, preferences, and goals.

5 Monitor and adjust

The fifth step is to monitor and adjust the CBE program based on the feedback and data that you collect from the assessments and the learning experiences. You need to track and analyze the learners' performance, progress, and satisfaction, and identify any strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, or challenges. You also need to adjust the CBE program accordingly, by modifying the competencies, the assessments, the learning experiences, or the criteria and rubrics, as needed. You should also seek input and feedback from the learners, the stakeholders, and the state authorities, and ensure that the CBE program is compliant and transparent.

6 Celebrate and share

The sixth step is to celebrate and share the achievements and outcomes of the CBE program with the learners, the stakeholders, and the state authorities. You need to recognize and reward the learners' mastery of the competencies, and provide them with credentials, certificates, or badges that reflect their accomplishments. You also need to share the results and impact of the CBE program, such as the learners' growth, retention, satisfaction, or career readiness, and demonstrate how they align with the state standards and expectations. You should also showcase the best practices and lessons learned from the CBE program, and contribute to the knowledge and innovation in the field of CBE.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?