Hello, Everyone.
These are some of the big questions: Why? Why are you making an advanced credential? Who? Who are advanced practitioners - can they be defined? How? How will you develop this exam to make sure it is really representative of a real-life advanced practitioner? Let's start with "Why?" The desire for such an advanced certification has been verified through various projects and studies over the last twelve years: • In 1997, Job Task Analysis survey respondents indicated a desire for advanced certification and specialty exams. In response, NCBTMB commissioned a Task Force, which then distributed a market research survey to stakeholders through the NCB Connections newsletter. When asked to respond to "I support the development of a "Masters" or Advanced Level of certification which recognizes higher levels of skill and experience than the current NCBTMB credential" almost two-thirds of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed. • In 2000, a feasibility study for an advanced credential was undertaken. This further reinforced the idea, noting the need for a body of knowledge in order to proceed. • Shortly thereafter, in 2001, a Pre-Job Analysis Report for Advanced Certification was commissioned with an independent testing company to confirm the belief that a real construct exists for an advanced exam and credential. This was confirmed and in 2002 and 2003, further refining work was completed regarding task analysis and item development. • In 2007, the Job Task Analysis again reflected that the profession desired a voluntary advanced credential. • Finally, in 2009, after review of these past efforts and confident that the desire for such a credential was evident, the NCBTMB Board of Directors decided to proceed with the creation of an advanced certification credential and exam. Nearly 7,000 practitioners responded to the Needs Assessment Survey, indicating that the interest in such a credential remains high. Now for "Who?" Even though the profession of massage therapy and bodywork is varied and encompasses many different techniques and methods, a valid definition of the knowledge, skills and abilities needed for one to practice has already been created. The Job Task Analysis (JTA) is the tool used to define the knowledge, skills and abilities for which a specific exam will test. Both the NCBTMB and the Federation developed their exams through the usage of JTAs, defining the minimum requirements for participation in the "profession" of massage therapy. The MTBOK is further defining what is encompassed within the practices of the profession. We are aware that not every massage practitioner will want to take an advanced certification exam. But you have to remember that the keystone of advanced certification is that it is completely voluntary. It will simply provide an option for people who have practiced for years and mastered their craft and desire to have a means to set themselves apart -- to differentiate themselves based on their knowledge, skills and abilities as defined by the profession and verified by an independent agency. And, finally... "How?" A steering group of test development specialists, psychometricians and NCBTMB representatives is directing the development of the new credential. Working with a Task Force of more than 20 diverse professionals serving as the core body of industry experts, specific exam development activities will be tackled one at a time. This includes items such as item (or question) writing, item review and standard setting. We'll know it is really representative of a real-life advanced practitioner because we will rely on input from practitioners across the field to define the exam content with the Job Task Analysis survey. A Step-by-Step document will be posted on the webpage within the week to explain each step and let you see where we are in the process. I hope this gives you a better understanding of the rationale for NCBTMB’s activities regarding advanced certification. We truly feel that this is something that the profession has been asking for and that it will provide benefits for practitioners across the country. We are committed to providing a certification that will elevate the stature of the profession, by increasing respect and notability nationwide. This is one way that massage can move closer to the status of other allied health and integrative professions. Until Next Time... Liz
