competency etymology

Etymology

The word "competency" is derived from the Latin word "competere," which means "to come together" or "to be suitable."

Meaning

Competency refers to the ability, knowledge, or skills required to perform a specific task or job effectively. It encompasses the necessary qualifications, expertise, and experience to carry out responsibilities with proficiency.

Origin

The concept of competency has its roots in professional and academic settings. It was initially used to describe the minimum requirements for individuals to practice in certain professions, such as medicine, law, and engineering. Over time, the term has been adopted in various fields, including:

  • Education: Competency-based learning focuses on achieving specific outcomes rather than solely completing courses or meeting attendance requirements.
  • Workforce development: Competency models define the essential skills, knowledge, and behaviors required for employees to succeed in their roles.
  • Healthcare: Competency assessments evaluate healthcare professionals' ability to provide safe and effective care.
  • Personal development: Individuals may identify areas where they need to develop competencies to enhance their skills and capabilities.

Usage

Today, the term "competency" is widely used in numerous contexts, including:

  • Describing the skills and knowledge needed for a particular job or role
  • Assessing and certifying individuals' proficiency
  • Developing training programs to enhance competencies
  • Evaluating employee performance and potential
  • Identifying gaps in knowledge and skills

competency relate terms

  • compete

    Etymology Latin competere meaning to seek together to strive after Proto Indo Eu

  • competence

    Etymology Latin competentia fitness suitability Proto Indo European komt to j

  • qualified

    Etymology Origin Late Middle English in the sense skilled from Latin qualific

  • proficiency

    Etymology From Middle English proficiencie proficience 15th century from Latin prof

  • ability

    Etymology Old French abilité Latin habilitas aptness skill ability Proto Indo

  • redeem

    Etymology The word redeem comes from the Latin word redimere which means to buy bac

  • scarf

    Etymology The word scarf comes from the Old French word escharpe which itself is de

  • dismay

    Etymology Middle English dismayen verb dismay noun Old French desmaier verb des

  • talent

    Etymology The word talent has two distinct etymologies Greek τάλαντον Mea

  • emblem

    Etymology The word emblem is derived from the Greek word emblema meaning something