Core Competencies: Not Just for Students Anymore

Teachers can regularly be overheard lamenting the standardized tests that measure core competencies.  It’s so difficult to measure what a student knows and what he or she needs to know.  Not everything can be measured.

Now, teachers are not the only ones needing to figure out how to work with these hazy competencies.  The U.S. Department of Labor is encouraging many industries to adapt certain standard assessments of their employees.  Although this process may be harrowing for many, it may be helpful to recruiters.  These types of models may help recruiters to quickly evaluate which job candidate is best suited for a particular line of work.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced the release of the Long-Term Care, Supports and Services Competency Model.  It identifies the core competencies required of workers who provide long-term care, support and services for individuals with disabilities and older adults in need of assistance.

“Competency models outline the knowledge and skills needed by workers in specific industries, and are helpful tools to ensure that our workforce is prepared to fill important occupations,” said Jane Oates, assistant secretary for the Employment and Training Administration. “There is a growing need for professionals who enhance the health and well-being of people with disabilities, and care providers who work with aging adults, enabling them to live self-determined lives.”

The LTCSS model describes the academic, workplace and technical competencies required for workers who provide social services, community supports and health care services for those in need.  By focusing on the skills requirements of workers in occupations serving nursing, assisted living, congregate care and independent assisted living facilities, the model helps to highlight transferable skills that can be applied across these related fields.