Competency-Based Learning Pathways
Massachusetts Library System, 2024 - Present
The Challenge
Library staff across Massachusetts needed structured ways to build skills, but training was fragmented with no credentialing, no progression model, and uneven quality across providers. I led a cross-functional team of internal stakeholders, member subject matter experts, and external course development vendors to design a competency-based framework that could scale statewide.
I designed a competency-based framework that supports multiple statewide learning pathways, aligned with IACET standards and adult learning theory. Each pathway is built through a collaborative process involving needs assessment surveys, competency mapping with member experts, and course development managed through external vendors.
What I Led
- Defined competencies collaboratively with stakeholders across library types
- Created a systematic 7-step development process with templates for each phase
- Managed external vendors through course development, review, and revision cycles
- Designed modular pathways with core and elective courses
- Built summative assessments with rubrics and evaluator guidelines
- Conducted statewide needs assessment surveys to validate competencies
- Published pathways in LMS using H5P interactive overviews, digital badges, and structured progression
Development Toolkit
I created a replicable 7-step process for developing any new pathway, with defined roles and RACI accountability at every phase:
- Project Charter and Matrix
- Competency and Learning Outcome Development
- Survey Drafting
- Survey Implementation Plan
- Survey Distribution and Monitoring
- Survey Analysis Report
- Learning Pathway Rationale
Results
- Competency-based model that scales statewide
- Four pathways in active development
- Foundation for IACET accreditation and CEU issuance
- Replicable toolkit with templates for every development phase
Interested in this kind of work?
I am happy to talk about learning leadership, instructional design, accreditation, and applied research. Reach out by email or LinkedIn.