Table 5 Proposed glossary of terms for health-related competency frameworks
From: Proposing a re-conceptualisation of competency framework terminology for health: a scoping review
Term | Definition | Conceptual characteristics |
|---|---|---|
Activity | An area of work that encompasses groups of related tasks. Activities are time limited, trainable and, through the performance of tasks, measurable. | Time limited, i.e. begins and ends Describe what is done |
Attitude | A person’s feelings, values and beliefs, which influence their behaviour and performance of tasks. | An unobservable attribute inferred through performance |
Behaviour | Observable conduct towards other people or activities that expresses a competency. Behaviours are durable, trainable and measurable. | Observable attribute, often applied in combination, i.e. several behaviours may contribute towards one competency |
Competency | The observable ability of a person, integrating knowledge, skills, and attitudes in their performance of tasks. Competencies are durable, trainable and, through the expression of behaviours, measurable. | Not time limited, i.e. durable through multiple activities Can develop/improve or erode over time |
Competent | Performance of required competencies and activities to a defined standard for an occupational role (e.g. “she/he is competent”). | Dichotomous, i.e. one is or is not competent |
Knowledge | The informational base of competencies and activities. | An unobservable attribute of competence inferred through performance or determined through specific testing A competency and/or activity may draw on multiple areas of knowledge simultaneously |
Proficiency | A person’s level of performance (e.g. novice or expert). | A degree of ability to perform (continuous) |
Occupational role | A category that characterises certain groups of activities (e.g. student, practitioner, educator, manager, researcher). | An aggregate of linked activities that serve a common purpose The macro level to activities (meso) and tasks (micro) Determines scope of practice |
Skill | A specific cognitive or motor ability that is typically developed through training and practice. | Observable (physical) and unobservable (cognitive) attribute, often applied in combination, i.e. several skills may contribute towards one competency and/or activity |
Standard | The level of proficiency required to perform an occupational role, acquire a professional title, or be deemed safe to perform specific tasks. | A specific level of performance (discrete) |
Task | Observable units of work as part of an activity, which draw on knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours. Tasks are time limited, trainable and measurable. | Observable attribute of activities, often applied in combination, i.e. several tasks may contribute towards one activity |