You may be referring to Lifelong Learning. Here are some links that may help you:

http://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ883606

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042811011955

http://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/bitstream/JRC60268/reqno_jrc60268_saisana_jrcvalidation_elli.pdf[1].pdf

http://jdc.jefferson.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1339&context=hpn

Thank you very much, very helpful!

 Here's a link to studies in RG on your topic that can be helpful in answering your question. 

Debra

https://www.researchgate.net/search.Search.html?type=publication&query=measuring%20mastery%20in%20education&tabViewId=56fc293d615e275b1c306d9f&previous=researcher

Thank you very much!

What method do you first apply in the delivery of classroom instruction? That question determines how students will master their lessons and that will equally form a spring board if they will master anything taught and learnt. While considering your method of instruction, know that for the 21st century folks to master anything, Socratic method and integrated and collaborative methods are reliable methods. Then, concerning assessment, authentic assessment is the best method to use in assessing how students master the key and essential lessons taught and learnt. This is a holistic method of assessment. Hence, authentic assessment according Wehlage (1996, p. 23) is the measurement of "intellectual accomplishments that are worthwhile, significant, and meaningful, as compared to multiple choice standardized tests.” Whereas, Performance based assessments call upon the examinee to demonstrate specific skills and competencies, that is, to apply the skills and knowledge they have mastered" (Stiggins, 1987, p. 34).