Testing Program

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Testing is currently offered at the Entry and Associate levels. Testing at the Professional level will begin in 2003 as part of the national certification program. Advanced level testing will be available at a later date.

The Entry and Associate level tests are 75 item multiple-choice examinations. Several versions of each test are in use. Each examination is based on the knowledge and skill requirements taken from the 7 content areas described in the Certification Core Competencies. These competencies are generally applicable to all of the child and youth work field domains (e.g. foster parenting, treatment, early childhood, developmental disabilities, corrections, after-school programming and community youth services).

Plans are in development to add videotaped scenarios to the testing program. On-line testing over the Internet will be available in the near future.

The Entry level tests are in their 4th edition. Extensive statistical analysis has been completed to determine the validity, reliability, and bias of the test instruments. A practitioner must achieve a score of 75% or better to pass these tests.

The Associate level tests are in their 1st edition and are currently in the pilot-testing phase. When an adequate number of tests have been administered, statistical analysis will be undertaken and the tests revised based on the results. At this time, all practitioners taking these tests are considered to have passed. These practitioners can be certified when adequate documentation and references have been submitted. When these practitioners apply for recertification in 2 years they will be asked to retest (no additional charge) if their scores fall below the number determined to have been the passing score for the exam. The passing score will be determined when the tests are analyzed for validity, reliability, and bias. If practitioners do not pass the exam when retesting they will not be recertified. Practitioners with scores at or above the passing score will not be required to retest.

Availability

Testing is available in Texas, Wyoming, and other states. Many conferences include testing as part of their programs. Regional testing is available through regularly scheduled testing in QCI Partner organizations. In-agency testing can be arranged by contacting the Institute state office. On-line testing over the internet is under development and will be available soon. For more information on testing sites near you, contact the Institute State Office (979-764-7306).

Fees for Testing

One fee pays for both testing and processing of the application. Recertification is required every two (2) years (testing is not repeated).

• Entry Level Testing .......... $50.00
• Associate Level Testing ... $75.00

Reduced rates for testing are available through some cooperating organziations. For more information, contact the Institute State Office (979-764-7306).

Scheduled Testing and Training

Testing and training are scheduled at the following locations. For additional information, call the number listed or contact the Institute State Office (979-764-7306).