Educational approaches: Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Digital Badges (Credly) vs. Outdoor and Experiential Education (Outward Bound Wilderness Expeditions)

Quick Verdict

Both Competency-Based Education with Digital Badges and Outward Bound Wilderness Expeditions offer unique educational experiences. CBE is better suited for those seeking personalized, tech-integrated learning with direct career applications and digital validation of skills. Outward Bound is ideal for those who value experiential learning, personal development through outdoor challenges, and building teamwork and communication skills in a pre-digital environment.

Both CBE with Digital Badges and Outward Bound offer flexible learning paces and emphasize real-world application of skills.
CBE utilizes digital badges for competency validation and integrates technology, while Outward Bound focuses on experiential learning and disconnecting from technology.
Both programs offer curriculum customization and aim for accessibility and inclusivity, but Outward Bound has a stronger emphasis on personal development through outdoor experiences.
CBE focuses on aligning with industry needs, while Outward Bound emphasizes adaptability and interpersonal skills.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Digital Badges (Credly)	Outdoor and Experiential Education (Outward Bound Wilderness Expeditions)
Learning Pace Flexibility	—	—
Skill Mastery Assessment Rigor	—	—
Real-World Application Emphasis	—	—
Accreditation and Recognition	—	—
Cost and Financial Aid Options	—	—
Instructor-Student Interaction	—	—
Curriculum Customization Options	—	—
Technology Integration Level	—	—
Accessibility and Inclusivity	—	—
Career Advancement Opportunities	—	—
Personal Development Focus	—	—
Community and Networking Opportunities	—	—

Overall Comparison

CBE with Digital Badges: 83% of employers prefer a digital badge when verifying student skills. Outward Bound Wilderness Expeditions: Staff to student ratio is approximately 1:5.

Pros and Cons

Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Digital Badges (Credly)

Pros:

Flexibility in learning pace
Focus on skill mastery
Emphasis on real-world application
Digital badges for competency validation
Personalized learning experiences
Supportive instructor interaction
Curriculum customization
Technology integration
Accessibility and inclusivity
Career advancement opportunities
Community and networking opportunities

Cons:

Cost may be similar to traditional programs

Outdoor and Experiential Education (Outward Bound Wilderness Expeditions)

Pros:

Varied teaching methods cater to different learning styles.
Skills learned are transferable to real-world situations.
Offers custom programs and tailored expeditions.
Focuses on personal growth and development.
Builds teamwork and communication skills.

Cons:

Focuses on disconnecting from technology.
Cost varies depending on the course length and location.

User Experiences and Feedback

Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Digital Badges (Credly)

What Users Love

Accommodates diverse learning styles and paces
Curriculum structured to demonstrate learning in clearly articulated competencies
Aligns educational outcomes with industry needs
Digital badges are recognized by employers
Flexible structure supports diverse learners

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

No value feedback reported.

User Recommendations

CBE offers flexibility, allowing students to move quickly through grasped material and spend more time on challenging topics.
CBE has a curriculum structured to demonstrate learning in clearly articulated competencies.
CBE aligns educational outcomes with industry needs, ensuring students acquire skills and knowledge employers value.
83% of employers prefer a digital badge when verifying student skills.
CBE's flexible structure supports diverse learners, reducing achievement gaps and fostering equity in education.

Outdoor and Experiential Education (Outward Bound Wilderness Expeditions)

What Users Love

Uses varied teaching methods to cater to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners.
Competencies assessed include technical skills (navigation, camp craft) and interpersonal skills (teamwork, leadership).
Skills like adaptability, communication, and conflict resolution are directly transferable to real-world situations such as navigating new responsibilities, jobs, and relationships.
Significant direct interaction with instructors.
Instructors are experienced outdoor educators who provide guidance and feedback.
Offers custom programs and can tailor expeditions to meet specific goals.
Committed to providing opportunities for people of all backgrounds.
Previous graduates have pursued careers as outdoor educators.

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

No value feedback reported.