Abstract:Proposes a framework for the design of a learning environment which encourages the acquisition of academic and professional competence. Definition of knowledge, cognitive skill and competence; Acquisition of competence; Designing an environment for competence acquisition; Implementation of study environments within education. Full Text Word Count: 11025 ISSN: 0307-5079Accession Number: 9707174825 Database:Academic Search Elite THE DESIGN OF A STUDY ENVIRONMENT FOR ACQUIRING ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE ABSTRACT This article sets out, by incorporating notions drawn from cognitive, constructivist and action psychology, a foundation for the design of a learning environment for the acquisition of competence. It does not make exclusive use of any one school of thought, but synthesises a number of notions and insights from each of the schools into an integrated approach to the education of competent professionals. The outcome of this synthesis is a model for a study environment which is composed of a knowledge environment and a task environment. The model aims to sensitise teachers and educational designers and developers to the various elements that distinguish training in competence from mere 'skills training'. Knowledge, Cognitive Skill and CompetenceThe subject of this article is the design of study environments aimed at the acquisition of competence. We define competence as the whole of knowledge and skills which people have at their disposal and which they can use efficiently and effectively to reach certain goals in a wide variety of contexts or situations. We begin by distinguishing clearly between knowledge, cognitive skill and competence, as such a distinction will make it possible to formulate concrete proposals for the design of study environments for acquiring competence.

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