ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN COMPETENCY-BASED EDUCATION: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Abstract

Competency-Based Education (CBE) is gaining global attention as an outcome-oriented approach that emphasizes mastery of skills over time-bound instruction. With the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), CBE can become more scalable, personalized, and effective. This chapter explores the role of AI as an enabler of Competency-Based Education in the 21st century. It begins by outlining the conceptual foundations of CBE and AI in education, followed by an analysis of how AI tools support personalization, adaptive learning, AI-driven assessment, competency tracking, and skill development. The chapter further examines key opportunities such as enhanced learner engagement, improved equity and access, efficiency in teaching, and data-driven decision making. It also critically discusses the challenges associated with AI integration, including technological infrastructure gaps, teacher readiness, data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the risk of over-dependence on technology. Drawing on global and Indian contexts, including the vision of NEP 2020, the chapter concludes with recommendations for policy, practice, and future research. It argues that with ethical implementation and adequate capacity building, AI can significantly strengthen CBE and contribute to more inclusive, flexible, and learner-centred education systems.