Emergence and development of the concept of competence

Abstract

The concept of competence has been widely explored in the literature, promoting the existence of different conceptualizations and approaches, making it difficult to define. However, the understanding of their evolution and conceptual diversity proves to be enriching in that it mirrors the distinct mutations at the level of practices of human resource management.
This work will take place on a literature review that mirrors these developments: theoretical and actual practice in human resource management. Thus, we carried out a literature search in several databases (in scientific publications) based on temporal reference to the 70s, during which emerges the discussion around the topic.
This concept arises in America in the late 60s, early 70s, frankly associated with personality traits. McClelland (1973) the main driver of this perspective, defines competence as the ability to apply and use the knowledge, skills, abilities, behaviors and personal characteristics in order to achieve a successful professional performance critical tasks. The definition of this concept has undergone complex changes over the years and its obvious relevance is mirrored in the increasing emphasis in the organizational context, particularly in their practices of human resource management.
In this paper we make a literature review where it highlights the relevance of the emergence of the concept of competence, presents the evolution of the concept so far, as well as the approaches, dimensions and levels of analysis of the concept. The conceptualizations are discussed and displayed their implications for theory and practice.