The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing
Vol. 39 No. 2 February 2008
By Donna D. Scott Tilley, PhD, RN
ABSTRACT
Competency is a topic of great interest to educators and administrators in practice disciplines, particularly health care disciplines such as nursing. This article focuses on the role of competency in nursing. Through a concept analysis process, various elements of competency were assessed. The defining attributes of competency are the application of skills in all domains for the practice role, instruction that focuses on specific outcomes or competencies, allowance for increasing levels of competency, accountability of the learner, practice-based learning, self-assessment, and individualized learning experiences. The learning environment for competency assurance involves the learner in assessment and accountability, provides practice-based learning opportunities, and individualizes learning experiences.
J Contin Educ Nurs 2008;39(2):58-64.
AUTHOR
Dr. Scott Tilley is Nursing Director, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas.
The author discloses that she has no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.
Address correspondence to Donna D. Scott Tilley, PhD, RN, Texas Christian University, TCU Box 298620, Fort Worth, TX 76129.
