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NICET is Transitioning to Computer Based Testing
Over the next few years NICET will transition from paper and pencil testing in the Work Element (WE) format to Computer Based Testing (CBT) in a standardized format for its certification exams. The following will explain what that means and why we are making these changes.
Let's start by defining the terms as they pertain to NICET—
Paper and pencil tests are produced on paper and the answers are recorded on a bubble sheet with a pencil. The answer sheet is scanned for scoring. NICET has used this method for delivering tests since it began certification programs.
A Work Element is composed of one or more logically connected tasks or task-related units of knowledge. NICET currently uses a minimum of five multiple choice questions to test each work element. Meeting a testing requirement is based on passing a number of work elements determined by each subfield and level.
Computer Based Testing delivers tests at designated centers on a computer. The questions are displayed on a screen and candidates select the answer using a simple click of a mouse or a similar method. Responses are electronically recorded and scored. Knowledge of how to operate a computer is not necessary to take the test. Test takers will be given advanced use of the controls and the ability to practice until they are comfortable with the process.
A standardized format means everyone testing in the same subfield and level will be tested on the same material. Each test will have sections called domains that represent tasks or task-related units of knowledge. A passing score is determined on the test as a whole.
NICET is making this change to take advantage of recent advances in technology and certification best-practices that will bring a better testing experience for the technicians and increase the value of NICET certification for the industries that rely on a proven credential. The standardized exams will be administered at secure, proctored test sites and delivered on a computer.
There are many benefits to CBT:
Convenient Scheduling—Testing centers are located across the U.S. and internationally. Candidates will be able to schedule their exam at a time and place that is most suitable to their own schedule. These testing centers are generally open 10-12 hours a day, and 5, 6 or 7 days a week year-round.
Better Questions—The computer allows for greater flexibility in how the material is presented. Use of images with clickable areas, drag and drop scenarios, and simulation techniques can more accurately represent the tasks, as they are performed on the job, than multiple choice questions alone.
Faster and More Accurate Scoring—At the end of the exam session, (except for the Beta test; which is a topic for another time) the status (pass or fail) will be provided before you leave. If you were successful, you will be told that you passed. If you were not successful, you may be given a list of areas suggested for further study. With CBT, scoring mistakes caused by transposing the answer from the test booklet to the answer sheet incorrectly, not erasing a changed answer completely, and not filling in the bubble exactly right are eliminated.
NICET started this transition to CBT in a standardized format in 2000 when we were approached by the security industry to develop a certification for Video Security Systems. We are taking the lessons learned from creating those new programs to ease the transition for the existing ones. Gary Schmitt is a certified Audio Systems Level III technician. He has taken Audio System exams in the NICET paper and pencil/WE format and the Video Security System Designer exam in the CBT standardized format. Gary says this about the new method of testing,
"The thing that struck me most about the Computer Based Testing was the flexibility with regard to scheduling the exam. Unlike the older proctored written exams which could only be scheduled one per quarter, the Computer Based Testing can be scheduled quickly and in harmony with my personal schedule(s). I also found the quantities and locations of the testing centers to be much more convenient…Taking the exam itself was more pleasant as well."
The first programs in transition to CBT are in the Fire Protection, Construction Materials Testing and Transportation fields. Other programs will follow based on demand and age of the current program content. Future issues of News from NICET will feature timelines and options as we get closer to releasing the new exams. Plus we have started an FAQ for CBT.
What does this mean to you? In the short run, it means nothing: you can still test as usual, using the same format. NICET will give you every opportunity to continue and to finish testing in the paper and pencil/WE format. However, there will come a time (late 2008 early 2009 for the first few programs) when the WE format for Level I will be discontinued and new applicants will be required to take the CBT examinations.
Making this transformation is the result of years of careful consideration from NICET staff, board members, and industry advisors. While some of you are eager for this advancement, we understand it might cause concerns for others. Our hope is that by providing advanced notice and clear explanations, we can minimize any apprehension. In the coming months we will expand on the details of the process. We believe it will become apparent that this change is necessary to maintain and increase the credibility of NICET certification.
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