COMPETENCE AND COMPETENCY: CONSENSUS

Abstract

The article identifies the causes of terminological inconsistency and disagreement in the interpretation of the terms "competence" and "competency" that arise as a result of disagreement in the English-language sources, incorrect translation from English and subjective interpretation of these terms. The essence and the meaning of the scientific categories "Competence" and "Competency" were investigated, a rational approach to the correct understanding of their essence and meaning is substantiated and their definitions are given. Professional competences are the knowledge, skills and abilities in a speciality that must meet the specific requirements for practical activities in this profession. Competency is defined as a presence of specific professional competences, non-specific personal competences, attitudes and experience in a certain profession (activity) and the ability to correctly and timely use them in the process of professional activity in order to achieve professional goals and understanding of professional prospects. The term “competencies” is used mainly to describe certain job requirements, activities, positions, candidates for the position, etc., as well as a description of how and at what level these requirements should be implemented. The authors presented the process of developing competences and competency formation in the form of a “Pyramid of Competency”, the main elements of which are hierarchically: at the basic level: specific “professional” competences - knowledge, skills, abilities and non-specific “personal” competences - individual, team (group) and organizational; at the average level: attitudes - goal settings, value attitudes and intrinsic motivation; and at the highest level: mission, vision, which are realized through professional experience, potential and professional excellence (professional mastery, expert level). The authors concluded that a detailed analysis of the terms “competence” and “competency” and the given arguments allows reaching a consensus on definitions, interpretations, understanding of the essence and meaning, their relationship and differentiation, which will allow avoiding further differences and disagreements on this issue.