InformOntario Symposium “The Certification Process” June 2014 Faed Hendry - CIRS Manager – Training & Outreach Findhelp Information Services Toronto, Ontario.

InformOntario Symposium“The Certification Process”

June 2014

Faed Hendry - CIRS Manager – Training & Outreach Findhelp Information Services Toronto, Ontario 416-392-4544 [email protected]

Session Objectives and Outcomes

To provide an overview and deeper understanding of the CIRS and CRS process.

To highlight changes and options regarding the Certification process.

To provide information on techniques to minimize test anxiety and provide strategies for exam preparation.

Questions and Answers

What is Certification?

AIRS Certification is a professional credentialing program for individuals working within the I&R sector of human services.

Certification is a measurement of documented knowledge in the field of I&R and I&R/A reflecting specific competencies and related performance criteria, which describe the knowledge, skills, attitudes and work-related behaviors needed by I&R practitioners to successfully execute their responsibilities

CIRS/CRS

How are the tests created?

Stage 1: The Job Task Analysis Stage 2: JTA ValidationStage 3: Assessing Existing QuestionsStage 4: New Question DevelopmentStage 5: Question ReviewStage 6: Cut Score ReviewStage 7: Exam CreationStage 8: Final Exam Review

Composition of CIRS Exams

Composition of CRS Exams

Database Development & Maintenance 50% of exam

Communication 12% of exam

Quality Assurance 18% of exam

Reporting 10% of exam

Training 6% of exam

Professional Issues 4% of exam

Key Resources for CIRS Certification

AIRS Standards and Quality Indicators for Professional Information & Referral

CIRS Performance-Based Competencies for Information & Referral Specialists

CIRS Job Task Analysis

The ABC’s of I & R Sections 1-18

Your Experience – Don’t forget this!

Key Resources for CRS Certification

CRS Job Task Analysis

The ABC’s of I&R Sections 19-24

Indexing with the AIRS/INFO LINE Taxonomy

Setting Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria: Determining the Scope of a Resource File

Taxonomy Supplements: How to Keep the AIRS/INFO LINE Taxonomy Updated for Your Resource File:

Recertification

Your AIRS Certification lasts for 2 years from the time you pass the examination.

Every two years, you must apply for recertification. You do not need to retake the examination to be recertified but you must submit an application form that documents at least 10 hours of I&R training over that two year period.

Facts About Certification

Ontario has the second highest total of Certified Information and Referral Specialists…….. next to which state?

Approximately 75% to 80% of examinees pass the test. The exam is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Exams are based upon 100 multiple choice questions.

All exams are now computer-based but they all still require a proctor.

“Proctor U” testing option

Test Anxiety - What Causes It?

It may be past experiences of blanking out on tests or the inability to readily retrieve answers to questions that can bring on an episode of test anxiety. It could also be a lack of preparation for an exam which is a real reason to be worried about test performance.

Errors in time management, poor study habits, failure to properly organize material and cramming the night before the exam are also likely to increase test anxiety.

Ten Tips for Taking Certification Exams

Simulate the Required Behaviour – Application of Knowledge.

Spaced Practice – It is better than cramming! Don’t psych yourself out Stay away from others right before the test Don't expect to know everything Plan your time and pace yourself Read the entire question What to do when you don’t know the answer Check Your Answers …..and remember to breathe!

Make Certification Preparation Fun

Study Groups

AIRS Online Practice Exams

Certification Exercises/Games

Questions?

Thank you for attending this session!