Credentialing

Identifying Credentialing Exam Content

The first step in developing a credentialing exam involves gathering information to demonstrate that the exam content is directly linked to the occupation of [Page 130]interest. This is known as content validity. The most common approach for content validating a credentialing test is using an occupational analysis (also known as a practice analysis). An occupational analysis differs from a job analysis in that it focuses on an entire profession rather than a specific job. One of the most critical decisions during the occupational analysis for a credentialing exam is defining the targeted level of expertise to be tested. If the examination is designed to credential practitioners who possess the minimum level of required competence in an occupation, the analysis should focus only on entry-level requirements. However, if the examination targets intermediate or expert practitioners, particular attention should be given to identifying the level of competence to be targeted by the examination. Although a variety of techniques exist for gathering occupational analysis information, all occupational analyses should rely on input from individuals who are deeply knowledgeable about the profession.

Regardless of the occupational analysis technique employed, the results should be used to develop the credentialing exam's content outline (also known as a test blueprint). The content outline is used to convey the organization of the exam by describing the content domains covered on the exam, as well as the amount of emphasis given to each content domain. Most credentialing exams contain many content domains, which are traditionally organized by similar tasks, knowledge areas, or skills. The amount of emphasis given to each content domain should reflect the findings of the occupational analysis—that is, the domains identified as most important in the occupational analysis should receive the most emphasis on the exam, whereas domains of lesser importance should receive a smaller amount of weight. A well-developed content outline should not only guide the development of the test questions but also facilitate candidates' preparation for an exam.

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