A discussion concerning international recognition of degrees, diplomas, and other academic credentials focuses on such things as the range of diplomas awarded in that system, information on the diploma, its external public and vocational worth, and program access. (MSE)

Job relevance and adverse impact are major validity concerns relative to credentializing examinations. This article recommends that examination blueprints utilize a competency model based on: (1) job functions assigned; (2) level of expertise expected given the content and resources available; and (3) specific context and situation in which the…

This handbook provides information for persons who are preparing to take a test for certification in the plastics industry. The nine sections of the handbook provide information on the following: (1) the mission of the Society of the Plastics Industry and the value of the National Certification in Plastics; (2) tips on preparing for the exam; (3)…

School counselors represent an integral part of a quality educational program designed to meet the personal, social, academic, and career development needs of today's students. Michigan school districts are experiencing and reporting a significant shortage of qualified and appropriately credentialed school counselors. A statewide initiative was…

This guide was developed to provide teachers, related service personnel, administrators, paraprofessionals, and other individuals charged with assisting in the development of Minnesota's paraprofessional workforce, with information and strategies to build strong, effective, supportive teams to ensure successful educational services for all…

This report examines the expanding role of community colleges, the emerging credentialing system, and the changes in the economy that have increased the value of credentials. While business has come to rely on higher education degrees to signify general skills, employers increasingly look for performance-based certifications as indications of more…

This discussion paper addresses the impact of major trends in certification and credentialing on community colleges. Most community colleges are familiar with traditional credentialing and certification. However, changes in the number of people seeking higher education as a means to a better economic future and the shifting skill requirements of…

"Taking the Lead" is an initiative of The Center for Career Development in Early Care and Education at Wheelock College, working in partnership with other national organizations and government policymakers. The initiative is intended to build the capacity of the early care and education field to improve program quality by: (1) improving…

Movement toward a more flexible health manpower regulation system encourages these educational improvements: imaginative implementation of multiple entry points; training programs which provide for upward and lateral mobility; more meaningful competency examinations (toward the development of national standards); and developing continuing…

Discusses 15 job search rules for teachers which emphasize the importance of obtaining appropriate references, following proven interview techniques, and maintaining up-to-date reference files. A survey of recent education graduates (N=300) found those who were successful in their job search used a professional credential file at school. (JAC)

Based on a literature review, reasons for physician participation in traditional continuing medical education programs are categorized as: professionalism, an interest in topics, a means of validating or modifying prior learning, a means to attain a learning objective, and a change of pace. Inner motivation is seen as a more important reason than…

Explores four questions: What is child day care? Is day day-care regulation sufficiently different from 24-hour care licensing to require a whole new statutory base? Is facility licensure the most appropriate regulatory safeguard for all categories of day care? What other regulatory safeguards are needed? (Author/DB)

This article applies economic theory of firm-specific capital in labor relations to the mobility of dental school faculty, and concludes that existing licensure and credentialing requirements curtail faculty mobility and recruitment possibilities. (DB)

It is proposed that the dental profession eliminate entry-level clinical state board examinations in favor of licensure based on successful completion of an accredited curriculum and successful completion of Parts I and II of the National Board Examination. A 10-point strategy for accomplishing this goal is outlined. (MSE)

Development of an advanced placement examination and certification program that guarantees admission to foreign universities is discussed as a means of promoting international educational exchange and assuring comparability of academic standards. Use of American advanced placement credentials is already common in some foreign countries. (MSE)