The author challenges National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) criteria for professional certification and outlines basic competencies on which qualifications should be based for all financial aid professionals and for directors and assistant directors. (JT)

With the establishment of the Professional Improvement Record System (PIR) in 1974, members of the home economics profession can now have approved educational experiences computer recorded by an accredited association. (MW)

In the United States, early childhood educators are confronted with a chaotic "non-system" of preservice and in-service employment education requirements. Within this non-system, teachers and caregivers who work most autonomously, and have the most extensive responsibilities for the greatest number of hours with the youngest and most…

A study investigated the value of professional certification within the context of Massachusetts manufacturing companies with reported sales of at least $10 million but no more than $25 million. The specific certification evaluated was that of Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) as awarded by the American Production and…

This report identifies major issues associated with licensure, certification, and other qualifications for practice or employment of health personnel. Chapters are: (1) Credentialing and the Public Interest, (2) An Overview of Health Personnel Credentialing, (3) The Organizational Setting of Licensure, (4) The Disciplinary Function of State…

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…

In 2001, Kentucky instituted a placement policy mandating that all students entering undergraduate programs at public institutions who received a score of 17 or below on ACT subject exams in math, English or reading be placed in developmental coursework or receive supplemental help in those subjects. This study examines the public postsecondary…

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…