What is Mastery Learning Model? Definition, Principles, and Examples for 2025

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Many people have waterloo subjects, those in which they typically receive lower grades than others. But it’s not only the grades that are alarming given how little they learned, with some not learning how to write well or performing basic algebra. Studies say that many students graduate high school lacking the basic knowledge and skills needed to earn a college degree or to live meaningfully and conveniently (World Bank, 2018). Moreover, a recent study shows that 21% of American adults—or 43 million US adults—are considered illiterate despite having achieved a certain level of education (National Center for Educational Statistics, 2019).

This concern could be easily associated with schools’ failure to be a place of learning. For a long time, schools have focused on teaching rather than learning—assuming that in every ounce of teaching, students acquire an ounce of learning as well (Wharton School, 2008). And it starts with foundational STEM subjects. The good thing is a growing number of educators and school systems across the world have started shifting to an approach that focuses on what really matters—student learning. This educational strategy and philosophy is called mastery learning.

But what really is the mastery learning approach? How does it reshape our view of education and learning? In this article, we will discuss the mastery learning definition and its origins, as well as its elements, principles, prospects, and challenges. Teachers, administrators, and other educational stakeholders will find this comprehensive guide of value.

What is Mastery Learning 2025 Table of contents

What Is Mastery Learning for 2025?
What Are the Elements of Mastery Learning?
What Are the Principles of Mastery Learning?
How Does Mastery Learning Propel Career Readiness and Workforce Success?
How Can Mastery Learning Propel Success in Accelerated Online Programs?
How can mastery learning shape undergraduate degree selection?
Mastery Learning: Prospects and Challenges
Integrating Mastery Learning with Advanced Educational Opportunities
How does mastery learning integrate with accreditation and quality assurance standards?
Examples of Successful Mastery Learning Programs
How does technology facilitate mastery learning?
How Does Mastery Learning Enhance Financial Accessibility in Higher Education?
How Does Effective Teacher Training Enhance Mastery Learning?
How does the mastery learning model support diverse learning needs?

What Is Mastery Learning for 2025?

With the growing number of instructional strategies and models arising, one may ask “What is mastery learning?"

Moving away from the practices of traditional learning, mastery learning aims to address the limitations of teacher-centered approaches. It requires students to completely comprehend a lesson, regardless of the time and resources needed, before moving to the next level (Chargois, 2013). Furthermore, with the complexities of the human mind as explored by the information processing model, this educational model necessitates teachers to personalize the students’ learning experience, allowing some learners to have additional time to understand the lesson or develop a particular skill. In a manner, mastery learning empowers students to progress at their own pace.

Origins

Although the movement to adopt mastery-based approaches in education systems gained momentum only in recent past decades, the concept of mastery learning theory is not new. Its practice was first outlined by Benjamin Bloom in the 1960s, stating that students can master any task given the right conditions (Kampen, 2019). Bloom’s Learning for Mastery (LFM) strategy evolved and was later on implemented in primary and secondary school settings. Its basic features are as follows (McNeil, 1969, as cited in Chargois, 2013):

Students should understand the task and the procedures needed to complete the task.
There should be specific objectives for the task to be learned.
The subjects should be broken down into smaller sections, and students should be assessed after each lesson.
Teachers should provide students with feedback after each assessment.
Teachers should give students additional time to learn the lesson when needed.
Teachers could provide alternative learning opportunities if necessary.
It is recommended to let students work in groups for more than an hour, focusing on reviewing test results to increase student effort.

Aside from Bloom’s mastery learning, another prevalent mastery learning strategy is the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI). Developed by psychologist Fred Keller in the 1960s, the PSI is mostly implemented at the university level, focusing on five key principles (Kampen, 2019):

Students should be allowed to work at their own pace.
Students should achieve at least 90% accuracy on the assessment before moving to the next lesson.
Lessons should be considered as ‘vehicles of motivation.’
Teachers and students should consider using written communication in textbooks and study guides.
Teachers and students should get closer through repeated testing, immediate scoring, continuous tutoring, and progress tracking.

What Are the Elements of Mastery Learning?

At its core, mastery learning presumes that students can truly gain mastery over the subject or high levels of mastery in any academic content if they are provided with favorable learning conditions. As researchers and educators alike continuously propose new ways to improve the application of mastery-based approaches in schools, research has consistently linked effective instruction and learning to the six elements of mastery learning model (Guskey, 2010).

Pre-assessment

Theoretically, pre-assessments help teachers determine students’ prior knowledge, experience, skill levels, and potential misconceptions before beginning instruction (Guskey, 2016). Through this, teachers develop a substantial understanding of the students’ knowledge and abilities. This can be done through short quizzes or short discussions of previous learning experiences.

Diagnostic assessments are not only present in the mastery learning model. Almost every modern educational approach integrates some form of pre-assessment. As a matter of fact, studies have regarded pre-assessments as a way to make the learning environment “invitational" and to provide students with a metacognitive foundation for self-monitoring (Hattie, 2009; Tomlinson & Moon, 2013). In addition, Guskey (2016) noted that pre-assessment can assist teachers in:

Determining students’ prior knowledge and skills
Monitoring student progress
Communicating expectations
Focusing students’ attention on learning targets
Checking for misconceptions
Identifying students’ interests, talents, and preferred ways of learning

Group-based initial instruction

Although mastery-based approaches focus on personalized learning, the initial instruction is usually not done exclusively for each student. During the initial instruction, students are taught “high-quality, developmentally appropriate," and well-researched discussions in a group-based classroom—just like regular classes. But the instruction must be multifaceted, context-adapted, and student-oriented (Guskey, 2010).

Regular formative assessments

Another element viewed as an essential strategy by many modern instructional models is the use of regular formative assessments. Formative assessments inform teachers about what students learned well, and what students need to learn better. With this, teachers can determine the next steps to undertake to increase student achievement.

Typically, assessments are administered after a week or two of instruction. This could be in the form of quizzes, written assignments, oral presentations, skill demonstrations, or performances, depending on the subject area, the grade level, and the learning outcomes involved (Guskey, 2010).

Corrective instruction

In mastery learning classes, lectures do not end with quizzes or assignments. Next to performing formative assessments, teachers provide “high-quality corrective instructions" to mend learning problems that the assessments have identified. After all, what is mastery education if not ensuring students’ academic progress?

Different from “reteaching," corrective instruction approaches are versatile enough to accommodate different student learning styles, modalities, and intelligence levels (Sternberg, 1994, as cited in Guskey, 2010). Recent school statistics reveal that corrective learning activities usually take 10% to 20% additional time than initial learning units. However, these personalized lectures lessen the amount of time needed for remediation in the later units, allowing teachers to cover just as much material as they would using traditional teaching methods (Guskey, 2010).

Parallel formative assessments

Basically, the first assessment in mastery learning does not conclude the evaluation of student achievement. After corrective learning classes, mastery learning teachers conduct a second, parallel formative assessment to determine the effectiveness of the corrective instruction. Through this, students are also given a second chance to experience success and show mastery of the subject matter (Guskey, 2010).

Enrichment activities

Mastery learning educators also provide effective enrichment activities to learners who have mastered the material and do not need corrective instruction. Aiming to provide challenging yet rewarding learning experiences, these activities enable students to explore a greater depth of related topics that pique their interests. Enrichment activities could be in the form of academic games and exercises, various multimedia projects, and peer discussions (Guskey, 2010).

What Are the Principles of Mastery Learning?

As teachers and schools in the United States gradually move to mastery learning, it becomes important for school systems to establish a philosophical and pedagogical foundation in implementing the instructional model. For this reason, the Great Schools Partnership (2016) created the “Ten Principles of Mastery Learning," which describe the features commonly found in the most effective mastery-based systems.

Students and families are consistently informed of all learning expectations. These include the long-term expectations (e.g., graduation competencies), the short-term expectations (e.g., learning objectives), and the general expectations (e.g., the school’s grading and reporting system).
The students’ academic performances are assessed against common learning standards and performance expectations. This applies to all students regardless of whether they are enrolled in traditional courses or pursuing alternative learning experiences.
Since assessments are competency-based and criterion-referenced, student success is defined by the achievement of expected competencies.
Formative assessments are used to measure learning progress. Results from these assessments determine how to improve instructions, teaching practices, and academic support.
Summative assessments are used to evaluate learning achievement. Results from these assessments record students’ level of mastery at a specific point in time.
Students’ work habits, character traits, and behaviors, such as attendance and class participation are monitored and reported separately from academic progress and achievement.
Academic grades translate as a student’s learning progress and are used to improve and facilitate the learning process.
When students fail to meet expected standards, they are given another chance to improve their work.
Personalized learning options, differentiated assessments, and alternative learning methods can help realize student learning progress.
Students are empowered to make important decisions about their learning, including contributing to the design of learning experiences and pathways.

How Does Mastery Learning Propel Career Readiness and Workforce Success?

Mastery learning equips students with competencies that extend well beyond academic mastery, preparing them for the dynamic demands of today’s workforce. By fostering critical thinking, robust problem-solving abilities, and self-regulatory skills, this approach helps learners transition seamlessly into professional environments where adaptability is essential. Moreover, the model’s structured progression and formative assessments cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement, ensuring that graduates are not only career-ready but also prepared for lifelong growth. This framework aligns effectively with expedited educational pathways, including accelerated degree programs, by providing a clear and supportive path to advanced credentials and professional success.

How Can Mastery Learning Propel Success in Accelerated Online Programs?

Applying mastery learning principles to accelerated online programs enables students to progress at an individualized pace while ensuring deep subject comprehension. This model’s emphasis on continuous formative assessments and timely corrective instruction ensures that even in fast‐paced formats, learners receive the necessary support to secure long‐term academic success. Its structured approach facilitates timely transitions between course modules, contributing to improved outcomes in intensive academic tracks, such as accelerated AA degree online.

How can mastery learning shape undergraduate degree selection?

By leveraging the clarity provided by continuous assessments and personalized feedback, mastery learning enables students to identify their academic strengths and target degree programs that align with their competencies. This data-driven insight supports informed choices when evaluating options—including programs with streamlined prerequisites, such as the easiest bachelor degree to get—that offer both flexibility and career relevance. Moreover, the structured progression inherent in mastery learning fosters strategic planning for undergraduate studies, ensuring that selected pathways enhance long-term academic and professional growth.

Mastery Learning: Prospects and Challenges

Over the past decades, a number of studies have been published, claiming that mastery learning produced a positive effect on students’ academic performance (Kampen, 2019). In fact, a number of meta-analyses have indicated that mastery-based learning approaches are effective and have an impact of up to six months’ of additional progress (Education Endowment Foundation, 2018). In addition, mastery learning is seen as a direct, optimistic, and clear instructional approach that has a positive effect on students’ self-esteem (Sajadi et al., 2015).

However, implementing mastery-based instruction has been seen to be exhausting since it requires more effort both from the teachers and the students. Aside from this, the model requires a large amount of time to ensure that all students deliver mastery of the topic. Educational resources, including time, and teacher’s attention are also denied to strong learners and bestowed on weak ones (Sajadi et al., 2015).

Despite these challenges, mastery learning posits promising results concerning student learning progress. The mastery learning examples and models might look complex at first glance. But with the right amount of support and foundation, this transformational approach might be the future of education. It could also help learners get through tough learning culmination activities like university dissertations.

Integrating Mastery Learning with Advanced Educational Opportunities

Mastery learning not only redefines foundational education approaches but also serves as a stepping stone for learners aiming to pursue higher levels of academic achievement. By equipping students with the skills and confidence to master challenging content, mastery learning lays a solid groundwork for more advanced educational opportunities, including master's degree programs.

One prominent advantage of this educational model is its compatibility with flexible learning pathways, such as online degree programs. These options allow students to further specialize in their areas of interest while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. For individuals considering advanced studies, exploring programs such as affordable online masters can provide a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality. This aligns with the principles of mastery learning, which emphasize personalized learning trajectories and equal accessibility for diverse learners.

As students transition from mastery-based foundational learning to higher education, they can also expect to carry forward critical skills such as time management, self-discipline, and a growth mindset. These attributes are highly valuable in navigating the challenges of graduate programs and aligning their academic achievements with career ambitions. Mastery learning, thus, does not merely address immediate academic gaps but builds a robust framework for lifelong learning and success.

How does mastery learning integrate with accreditation and quality assurance standards?

Accrediting bodies increasingly emphasize evidence-based frameworks that validate rigorous learning outcomes and transparent assessment practices. Mastery learning models, with their systematic use of formative assessments and data-driven remediation, offer documented pathways that meet quality assurance benchmarks. Institutions can leverage detailed performance analytics and continuous improvement processes to align their curriculum with accreditation standards, thereby reinforcing academic rigor and institutional credibility. This structured approach supports clear, competency-based progressions that not only enhance learning but also strengthen educational accountability, paving the way for opportunities such as cheap bachelor degree online.

Examples of Successful Mastery Learning Programs

Mastery learning has been implemented successfully in various educational settings, showing promising results in enhancing student performance and engagement. Here are a few examples:

Khan Academy: This popular online learning platform embodies the principles of mastery learning by allowing students to work through lessons at their own pace. The system provides immediate feedback and targeted practice problems, ensuring that students master one concept before progressing to the next. This approach has helped students worldwide improve their understanding of complex subjects like mathematics and science.
The Personalized System of Instruction (PSI): Developed by Fred Keller, PSI is an early example of mastery learning implemented at the university level. It emphasizes self-paced learning and continuous assessment. In PSI, students take tests after each instructional unit, and only those who pass can move on to the next unit. This system has increased student engagement and success rates, particularly in challenging, content-heavy higher education courses.
The School of One: A unique educational initiative in New York City, the School of One uses mastery learning principles to create personalized learning experiences for middle school students. The program leverages technology to assess students' understanding in real-time and adapt lessons accordingly. This approach ensures that every student receives the instruction they need at their own pace, making learning more effective and inclusive.
Summit Learning Program: Schools in the U.S. use this program to provide a personalized learning experience that emphasizes mastery. Summit Learning combines project-based learning with assessments that help educators identify students' strengths and weaknesses. Students can revisit and strengthen their understanding of topics until they achieve proficiency.

These examples illustrate how mastery learning, supported by continuous assessment and tailored instruction, can significantly improve student learning outcomes. For students who excel in this approach, pursuing the top paying degrees may become a realistic goal, as mastery learning equips them with the solid foundation and critical thinking skills needed for higher education and lucrative career paths.

How Does Mastery Learning Enhance Financial Accessibility in Higher Education?

Mastery learning not only boosts academic proficiency but also creates cost-effective pathways that reduce the need for extensive remediation. By ensuring learners attain a solid command of concepts before progressing, the model minimizes the expenses associated with course repetition and supplemental tutoring. This strong foundation is instrumental when applying to competitive programs, where academic readiness can translate into eligibility for scholarships and other financial supports. Consequently, students are better prepared to apply to online colleges that offer financial aid, aligning quality education with economic sustainability.

How does technology facilitate mastery learning?

Digital platforms have transformed mastery learning by automating formative assessments, delivering immediate feedback, and personalizing learning trajectories. Advanced educational tools—ranging from adaptive learning software to virtual classrooms—enable precise diagnostic assessments and timely corrective instruction. This integration supports flexible scheduling and remote engagement, ensuring that both in-class and distance learners benefit from a consistent and scalable mastery framework. In addition, leveraging innovative digital resources can streamline pathways to advanced studies, as illustrated by opportunities in online masters degree cheap, thereby strengthening the overall efficacy of mastery learning.

How Does Effective Teacher Training Enhance Mastery Learning?

Effective teacher training is critical for ensuring that mastery learning achieves its full potential. Focused professional development programs enable educators to refine their skills in personalized instruction, accurately analyze assessment data, and implement timely corrective measures tailored to individual student needs. Moreover, ongoing training helps teachers integrate innovative digital tools and adaptive learning strategies that optimize teaching effectiveness and promote a responsive learning environment. This strategic investment in educator expertise not only boosts instructional quality but also underpins accelerated academic pathways, such as accelerated associates degree online, by ensuring that foundational teaching practices remain current and effective.

How does the mastery learning model support diverse learning needs?

One of the key strengths of the mastery learning model is its ability to accommodate students with diverse learning needs and abilities. Unlike traditional education systems where all students move at the same pace, mastery learning allows personalized instruction that ensures each student masters the material at their own speed before advancing. Here's how the model supports diverse learners:

Personalized pacing: Students can progress at their own pace, which is particularly beneficial for those who may need additional time to grasp complex concepts or for students who are able to move through material more quickly.
Targeted interventions: The regular formative assessments and corrective instruction provide targeted interventions for students who are struggling. Teachers can identify specific areas where a student needs extra help and provide tailored support, ensuring that no student is left behind.
Multiple learning pathways: Mastery learning encourages the use of varied teaching methods and materials, catering to different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic). This flexibility allows students to engage with content in ways that resonate with them.
Encouragement of a growth mindset: By focusing on mastery rather than grades, students are encouraged to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as failures, which is particularly supportive for those who may struggle with self-confidence in academic settings.
Inclusive classroom environment: The model helps foster an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of their initial level of understanding, are given the support and time they need to succeed.

Key Insights

Definition and Approach: Mastery learning is an instructional strategy where students must fully understand a lesson before progressing to the next. This approach allows students to learn at their own pace and ensures thorough comprehension of the subject matter.
Historical Context: The concept was first outlined by Benjamin Bloom in the 1960s, emphasizing that students can master any task given the right conditions. The Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) by Fred Keller in the same era also contributed to the development of mastery learning strategies.
Core Elements: The mastery learning model includes pre-assessments, group-based initial instruction, regular formative assessments, corrective instruction, parallel formative assessments, and enrichment activities. These elements ensure that students receive continuous feedback and opportunities for improvement.
Principles: Key principles of mastery learning include consistent communication of learning expectations, competency-based assessments, formative and summative evaluations, separate monitoring of academic progress and behavior, and personalized learning options.
Prospects and Benefits: Studies have shown that mastery learning positively impacts students' academic performance, self-esteem, and overall learning progress. It is seen as a direct and optimistic instructional approach that can lead to significant academic gains.
Challenges: Implementing mastery learning can be demanding for both teachers and students. It requires substantial time, effort, and resources to ensure all students achieve mastery. This model also necessitates additional support for weaker students, which can strain educational resources.

FAQ

What is mastery learning? Mastery learning is an instructional approach that requires students to fully comprehend a lesson before moving on to the next one. It allows students to progress at their own pace, ensuring thorough understanding of the material.
Who developed the concept of mastery learning? The concept of mastery learning was first outlined by Benjamin Bloom in the 1960s. Fred Keller's Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) also contributed to the development of mastery learning strategies.
What are the core elements of mastery learning? The core elements of mastery learning include pre-assessments, group-based initial instruction, regular formative assessments, corrective instruction, parallel formative assessments, and enrichment activities.
How does mastery learning differ from traditional learning approaches? Unlike traditional learning, which often progresses based on a set schedule regardless of student understanding, mastery learning requires students to achieve a high level of comprehension before advancing. This ensures that all students have a solid foundation before moving on to more complex topics.
What are the benefits of mastery learning? Mastery learning has been shown to improve students' academic performance, self-esteem, and overall learning progress. It provides continuous feedback and opportunities for improvement, leading to significant academic gains.
What are the challenges of implementing mastery learning? Implementing mastery learning can be challenging due to the substantial time, effort, and resources required. It demands additional support for weaker students and continuous assessment and feedback from teachers, which can strain educational resources.
How are assessments used in mastery learning? Assessments in mastery learning are used to inform instruction and provide feedback. Pre-assessments determine students' prior knowledge, formative assessments monitor progress and guide corrective instruction, and summative assessments evaluate overall mastery of the subject matter.
What is the role of corrective instruction in mastery learning? Corrective instruction addresses learning gaps identified through formative assessments. It provides students with additional opportunities and alternative methods to understand the material, ensuring they achieve mastery before moving on.
How does mastery learning impact students' self-esteem? Mastery learning positively impacts students' self-esteem by allowing them to experience success and mastery of the material. Continuous feedback and personalized instruction help build confidence and a sense of achievement.
Is mastery learning suitable for all subjects and grade levels? Mastery learning can be adapted for various subjects and grade levels. However, its implementation may require different strategies and resources depending on the subject matter, students' age, and learning needs.