What are the CMC User Guides?
The Competency Model Clearinghouse User Guides provide background information, step-by-step directions, and resources for using competency models. These guides cover: developing a competency model, communicating workforce needs, identifying credential competencies, developing curriculum, performing human resources activities, and career exploration and guidance.
What are competency model worksheets?
Competency model worksheets present the contents of a model in a format that can be easily annotated. The input gathered using the worksheets can facilitate the activities covered by the CMC User Guides. There are four types of worksheets: credential competency identification, curriculum analysis, employer analysis, and gap analysis. Each worksheet lists a model's competencies alongside a suggested input column.
For example, a curriculum analysis worksheet will have a column for the model's competencies and a column for each course in a curriculum. A curriculum developer can then identify which courses will cover which competencies. Alternately, the developer can use the worksheet to assess an existing curriculum by identifying which competencies are covered by courses, and which still need to be addressed.
How do I download a model as a worksheet?
Each of the Competency Model Clearinghouse's industry models can be downloaded in the four worksheet formats. Custom-made models can also be downloaded as worksheets from the "Stop & Save" menu of the Build a Model tool. When downloaded, the worksheets are automatically populated by the content of the selected model. Suggested column headings are provided, but can be edited according to the user's preference.
To download a CMC model in worksheet form, go to the industry model page and click on the "Download the industry model in several formats" link under "How To" on the left. You will then be able to download the full content of the model in PDF, MS Word, or Excel format. The four competency model worksheets are available as PDF documents or Excel files.
To download a custom-made model, click on the "Stop & Save" button available after building the first three tiers of your model. You will then be given the option to download the model in several formats, including the worksheets.
How do I use a competency model worksheet?
Suggested steps for using each of the four types of worksheets are included in the User Guides. Each worksheet also contains instructions and recommendations for the type of input to collect. For example, a suggested process for using the Identifying Credential Competencies Worksheet is offered in the Identify Credential Competencies guide, while the worksheet suggests that the value of each competency be rated as "not important", "preferred", or "essential".
Do I need to follow the step-by-step instructions available in the guides?
No, you do not need to follow the instructions included in the User Guides. The Competency Model Clearinghouse Guides and worksheets are offered as suggested resources for using competency models and do not represent the only way of performing the activities covered.
Can I change the column headings included in the worksheets?
The Competency Model Clearinghouse Guides and worksheets are offered as suggested resources for using competency models and do not represent the only way of performing the activities covered. Users are encouraged to edit or add worksheet column headings to meet their information collection needs.
What if I know a better way of accomplishing the activities covered in the User Guides?
If you have ideas about how to use the resources and tools found on the Competency Model Clearinghouse, please e-mail your suggestions to the Competency Model Clearinghouse at competency@careeronestop.org