High schools across Illinois are testing an approach that allows students to learn at their own pace, a concept introduced decades ago at the University of Chicago. Reports say 10 districts statewide, including Chicago Public Schools, are part of a pilot competency-based learning program. The approach puts the responsibility to study and master skills on the students by letting them make their own decisions. Students turn to peers and online searches for answers before they lean on teachers for help. Illinois has been slower than other states in launching the often controversial learning method. The Illinois General Assembly approved implanting competency-based learning pilot programs in 2016. The pilots were approved by the Illinois State Board of Education in 2017. Schools are in various stages of planning and implementation.
