Presents questions and discusses issues related to the accreditation standards and standards revision process of the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Presents selected recommendations for improving the standards and revision process, with special emphasis on the need for a democratic approach. (Author)

Responds to the questions and concerns raised in the previous article by Engels that relate to the accreditation procedures and standards revision process of the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Notes articles such as Engels' must consider CACREP Board's activities, decision, and interpretations.…

Review of the history of mandatory continuing education shows that it has increased the variety, quality, and number of programs; it increases participant knowledge but has not been proven to ensure competence. Only one-third of states require continuing education for physical therapy relicensing. (SK)

Benefits of vocational teacher certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards include the possibility of higher salaries and increased responsibilities and portability of credentials from state to state. (JOW)

Describes how eight professional associations formed the American Board of Nursing Specialties. Lists eligibility criteria for organizations, levels of certification, and future directions. (SK)

The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence conducts the only industrywide, national certification program for automotive technicians. As other industries explore standards, this program serves as a model. (JOW)

Rehabilitation counselors (n=1,535) reported that they were at least moderately prepared in vocational services; foundations of rehabilitation; case management/services; group/family counseling; medical/psychosocial aspects; workers' compensation, employer services, and technology; individual counseling/development; social, cultural, and…

Provides critical assessment of this special journal issue devoted to credentialing in rehabilitation counseling and credentialing movement in general. Contends that primary purpose of professional credentialing in counseling is not to protect the weak but rather to increase the power, authority, and incomes of the strong. Advises caution in…

ISO 9000 certification has the advantages of a measurable framework for quality efforts, continuous improvement, and better customer service. Drawbacks for education and training providers include volume of paperwork, ongoing cost, risk of a growing bureaucracy, and the difficulty of making changes quickly. (SK)

A survey showed states are adopting higher training and certification requirements for food-service workers. A train-the-trainer model was developed to prepare extension agents, health officers, and food-service managers to train others in food-safety procedures. (SK)

In recent years, a British government initiative has been pursuing the aim of National/Scottish Vocational Qualifications in all industries, trades, and professions. However, exemptions have been permitted for National Governing Body awards, such as exist for various sports and recreational areas. Efforts to reconcile these two parallel…

A survey of 502 nurse practitioners found that more than half had written research proposals or participated in research projects recently; nearly 50% wrote their own job descriptions; 93% belonged to the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners; and maintaining certification was the motivation for some professional behaviors. (Contains 29…

Discusses how counselors face demands throughout their careers for information from various sources including licensure boards, employers, managed care companies, courts of law, graduate schools, and professional associations. Suggests items for collection and organization in a working portfolio and gives examples of how counselors may use these…

State boards have a unique role in ensuring nurses' competence at initial entry into practice, license renewal, and reentry after voluntary absence or disciplinary action. Individual nurses, employers, and nurse educators also have roles in maintaining continuing competence. (SK)

Presents an overview of the historical development of the specialized practice, preparation standards, and credentialing of career counseling. Also focuses on commonalities of career counseling, general counseling, and other specialized forms of counseling. (JPS)