Preparing for the exam
The certification exam is one component within a comprehensive certification process. It is a situational judgment-based exam derived from case examples across a variety of Child and Youth Care practice settings. As a research-based assessment instrument, it has received ongoing analysis to promote reliability and validity.
Download the history and development of the certification exam (264 kb pdf).
Following are some of the more frequently asked questions about the exam and how to prepare to take the exam.
What is the format of the certification exam?
The exam includes seventy-five multiple choice questions in an online format. During the exam you will read a number of brief scenarios on the screen and respond to a number of questions based on each scenario.
What conceptual framework is the exam based upon?
The exam is based on a relationship and strength-based approach to Child and Youth Care practice with a developmental and ecological focus. It is an assessment of the ability to integrate Child and Youth Care theory with practice and is focused on the application of concepts rather than memorization of information.
How should I prepare for the exam?
The correct answers are based on the body of knowledge, skills, and ethical decision making required across the various settings and roles in which Child and Youth Care Professionals serve. A helpful way to prepare for the exam is to review the competencies and code of ethics. Coursework or a review course in child and youth care may also be appropriate if additional support is needed.
How will I know if I pass the exam?
At the conclusion of the exam you will see a screen which indicates whether or not you received a passing score. You may reschedule and retake the exam if you do not receive a passing score.
What style of questions will I see on the exam?
The following scenario and questions are representative of the style of the exam:
A group of pre-teens has been working together for about two months. A number of them have begun to establish connections with each other as they have had the opportunity to get know each other better. In particular, you have noticed that group rules and established roles are beginning to emerge from among the members of the group and that you don’t have to rely as much on external rules. One afternoon you are working closely with a subset of the larger group. Each person in this group had a chore they were responsible. As the others in the group are finishing their chores, you notice that one is behind in completing her task. When you take a closer look you realize she is attempting to complete her responsibility, but lacks the skills to do so. The next activity begins in ten minutes and it appears that she will be not be able to finish in time to attend.
What stage of development is this group currently experiencing?
A. Forming
B. Storming
C. Norming
D. PerformingWhich immediate response would likely best support the optimal development of the youth in this situation?
A. Ask youth to complete different chore while you complete her original task
B. Join in the chore alongside youth to model how to complete the task and allow her to be late to the activity
C. Swap chores between two youth
D. Let the youth complete the chore on her own without interrupting and then redo the task yourself at a later timeAnswers: C, B