The increasing number of associations becoming involved in accreditation and certification reflects the success of these programs in meeting goals of: increasing field and association visibility; increasing recognition of qualified workers, improving performance and qualifications of members; and enhancing the prestige of the associations and…

Approaches to learner accreditation form a continuum ranging from institutions determining outcomes and content to empowerment of learners to use their own learning from experience in a way that meets their definition of what is credit worthy. (SK)

The study evaluated the comparability of two versions of a certification test: a paper-and-pencil test (PPT) and computer-based test (CBT). An effect size measure known as Cohen's d and differential item functioning (DIF) analyses were used as measures of comparability at the test and item levels, respectively. Results indicated that the effect…

Argues against the inclusion of a writing sample as part of the GED examination. (AEA)

Listed are six organizations that offer bar review courses, and the addresses of state bar examiners and other pertinent information (application filing, exam dates and locations, and fees and residency requirements) for taking examinations. Available Law Student Division, American Bar Association, 1155 E. 60th St., Chicago, IL 60637; $1.00. (MSE)

Welsh project studied uses in adult education of the National Record of Achievement (NRA), a common format for summarizing education, training, and employment, concluding that NRAs should be appropriate to adult needs; adults should have ownership of the process and understand its purposes and their roles; and the process of recording achievement…

Pressure from policymakers and industry and the drive for competitiveness are the impetus behind national industry skill standards, already in place in some industries and states. Obstacles include controversy over the cluster versus specific approach, union fears, and employer and school acceptance. (SK)

A survey of 34 continuing-education institutions found that diverse units administer graduate certificate programs. A better model would involve shared governance by graduate schools and continuing education schools. Each brings different strengths: graduate schools offer quality assurance, and continuing education has a market orientation and…

This study explores whether the anticipation of a graded (merit, pass, fail) test outcome rather than a binary (pass, fail) form of feedback influenced the motivation of learners taking a vocationally related test. Ninety-four students currently taking a vocationally related qualification were divided into control and experimental groups. Each…

A survey of 60 further education tutors in the London Borough of Harrow explored the mobility of students between credit and noncredit programs, interest in certification and accreditation, and assessment methods such as records of achievement. Despite changes in funding, local commitment to adult education remains strong. (SK)

Georgia business teachers (49 industry certified, 188 not industry certified) and 378 business representatives rated 80 business education industry certification standards developed by the state department and the Society for Human Resource Management. Teachers generally rated them higher, but all three groups commented on lack of funds, lack of…

This chapter analyzes the educational attainment of Hispanic and other sub-baccalaureate students in certificate and associate degree programs.

Research supported by the Iowa Urban Community Research Center.