What are competences?

Competences are a set of abilities, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors that a person needs to perform effectively in a task, role or specific situation. They are fundamental in the laboral and educational context, since they help to define what a person is able to do for being successful in his job or learning process. The competences can be classified in diverse manners, but generally they are divided in two main categories:

1 Technical or Specific CompetencesThese refer to the abilities and knowledge necessaries to perform specific tasks related with a job or particular activity. For example, programming in a specific language for a software developer, or the capability to perform a financial analysis for a accountant.

2 Transversal or Soft CompetencesThese are generalized abilities that can be applied in multiple contexts. They include abilities such as effective communication, teamwork, problem resolution and adaptability. They are crucial because they complement technical abilities and they are more and more valued in the modern laboral environment.

A well-developed framework is a valued tool for the management of human resources, since it helps in the recruitment, the training, the development and the assessment of the employees' performance. In the educational context, it facilitates the design of curriculum that prepare students not only with specific knowledge, but also with key abilities for their professional future.