Tools for implementing a competency-based clinical curriculum: the dental school experience.

Competency-based education is based on the identification of clearly defined learning outcomes. Three major elements of a competency-based program must be determined during the development of the curriculum: statements of competency, the learning experiences that will support these competencies, and the methods for assessing or measuring attainment of these competencies. This article describes the methods used in assessing clinical competency in dental education.