ABSTRACT
Confusion often arises over the use of the term ‘competence’ to indicate a capacity in an individual and a ‘competence’ as an element of a life role or an occupation. NCVQ refers to ‘Units of Competence’ and ‘Elements of Competence’ thus tending to avoid the use of coined terms; NCVQ also refers to ‘general’ and ‘specific’ competence. This brings some (welcome) definition to the terminology for future development. In reporting the earlier developments, the coined terms ‘competences’ or ‘competencies’ are often seen to be applied in the US (and some UK) literature to describe discrete elements or activities. Where it has been necessary to use this terminology ‘competences’ is preferred.
