Summary

The concept of competencies focuses on what is expected from an employee in the workplace rather than on the learning process and encompasses the ability to transfer and apply skills and knowledge to new situations and environments. Competencies are a broad concept that includes all aspects of work performance rather than just narrow task skills.

Competencies and work

A Competency can be defined as "the ability to perform activities within an occupation or function to the standard expected in employment". Competency relates not to the task but to the underlying ability to perform required job components in the workplace. This definition extends beyond task based training to develop manual skills by involving knowledge, reasoning and a positive and responsible attitude within a role in the workplace.