The Teaching Competency Framework is designed to help instructors develop a comprehensive set of skills, knowledge, and attitudes essential for effective teaching. It encompasses seven core areas and provides a structured pathway for growth from emerging to advanced proficiency levels. These competencies are interrelated, meaning that progress in one area can enhance skills in other areas, creating a holistic approach to teaching excellence. The framework empowers faculty to assess their current teaching practices and align them with these competencies, establishing a solid foundation for ongoing professional development. 

As instructors master these competencies, they engage in continuous reflection and self-assessment, evolving their teaching practices through active professional growth. This process is supported by a range of formal and informal development opportunities. Mastery of the competencies fosters opportunities for instructors to contribute to institutional initiatives, advocate for innovative teaching practices, and advance the goals of reconciliation and diversity. 

Foundations 

The Teaching Competency Framework emphasizes seven core areas essential for effective teaching, such as curriculum development, assessment, and inclusive practices. It provides a structured progression through proficiency levels, from emerging skills to advanced mastery. These competencies are interconnected, ensuring that progress in one area can positively impact others, supporting comprehensive professional growth. 

The Teaching Competency Framework outlines seven (7) key areas of instructional expertise, from Curriculum Development to Diversity & Inclusion. These competencies guide faculty in developing strong teaching practices that support student success and professional growth.

Each competency includes broad indicators that define effective teaching actions, along with two proficiency levels: Emerging/Evolving and Mastering/Leading. These levels provide faculty with a clear roadmap to track progress and set professional development goals.

The competencies are interrelated, meaning growth in one area often enhances development in others. For example, advancing in Assessment & Evaluation may also improve Instruction & Delivery, fostering a holistic approach to teaching excellence and promoting student-centred learning.

Framework 

The Teaching Competencies outline the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to be a successful instructor at the College of New Caledonia. They provide a framework for professional development and allow instructors to create a personalized professional development plan. 

Focuses on creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment while delivering curriculum effectively. Instructors should communicate clearly, select appropriate instructional materials, and facilitate learner success and employment readiness. This competency focuses on supporting learner success and facilitating learner employment readiness.

Emphasize evaluating learning and performance using diverse assessment tools and techniques. Instructors should provide timely feedback, use authentic assessments, and manage course assessment strategies effectively. 

Encourages the integration of Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and ways of knowing into teaching. Instructors should demonstrate commitment to reconciliation, incorporate Indigenous content, and apply appropriate protocols. 

Promotes respect, cultural safety, and inclusivity in instructional practice. Instructors should utilize intercultural communication strategies, recognize diverse learning needs, and embed global perspectives in teaching. 

Focuses on the creation, revision, and alignment of curriculum with institutional standards and program goals. Instructors should design and update curriculum to reflect current trends and industry standards, create clear learning outcomes and pathways, prepare relevant learning activities and resources, and engage in ongoing curriculum evaluation to ensure its effectiveness and relevance to student needs. 

Focuses on integrating educational technologies into teaching to enhance learning. Instructors should use technology ethically, support learners with digital access challenges, and explore emerging digital tools for education. 

Encourages continuous professional growth, engagement with industry trends, and adherence to institutional policies. Instructors should demonstrate leadership, model professional behavior, and contribute to a positive learning environment.

Continuous Growth & Development 

Continuous growth and development in teaching involves ongoing reflection, self-assessment, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Faculty assess their current practices, engage in reflective activities, and pursue professional development to refine their teaching. Mastery of competencies leads to leadership roles, advocacy, and contributions to institutional development. 

Assessing current teaching practices through the competency framework helps identify strengths and areas for development. This self-assessment establishes a foundation for professional learning and instructional improvement, guiding faculty in aligning their teaching with the competency standards.

Competency development is an iterative process. Engaging in reflective practice—such as reviewing student feedback, self-assessing lessons, or discussing teaching strategies with colleagues—helps faculty evolve from foundational skills to higher levels of expertise.

Mastering competencies isn’t the end goal—continued growth is. Continued growth is essential, with advanced proficiency enabling leadership in initiatives, curriculum development, and advocacy for innovative teaching practices. Formal professional development opportunities, such as workshops or teaching fellowships, play a key role in supporting lifelong learning.

Next Steps

Dig Deeper

Browse the Teaching Competencies Resources folder in SharePoint for detailed tools and insights on each competency, strategies for growth, implementation techniques, and guidance for planning your professional development.

Read About It

Read the CTL Blog posts on the Teaching Competencies for personal insights and responses from the CTL team on this important topic impacting education.

Request Help

Need tailored support? Schedule a one-on-one consultation with a CTL member to discuss your teaching practice and receive personalized advice.

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