Advanced Certification

Understanding Certification & Credentialing Terminology

Hello, Everyone.

While exploring on the internet, I came across an excellent article  on credentialing  terminology written by Georgia Patrick of The Communicators, Inc.  I’m going to do my own ‘take’ on her article, incorporating some items that are specific to credentialing in the massage therapy industry. 

First off, I think many people are often confused by these terms.  Credentialing terminology can be convoluted and easily misused.  The word ‘credential’ itself is often misunderstood.  Dictionary.com defines ‘credential’ as evidence of authority or anything that provides the basis for confidence, belief, credit, etc.  ‘Credentialing’, then, is the act of conferring those credentials.  The credentials used by NCBTMB are those of certification.  The word ‘certify’ means, among other things, “to give assurance; testify; vouch for the validity of something.”  NCBTMB gives assurance and vouches for the validity of a person having the knowledge, skills and abilities to practice entry-level massage therapy in a safe and effective manner. 

In a wider since, credentialing is both a process (the act of conferring credentials) and an industry (institutions relied upon to provide independent verification and certification of individuals or processes).  Even among the multitude of people in the credentialing industry, credentialing terms are often misused.  Those who work in credentialing interact with people in many fields: education, regulation, assessment, etc.  Below are some of the terms you may encounter which relate to credentialing. 

Competency-Based Certification

This is a voluntary process through which an organization (like NCBTMB) grants recognition to those who have met specified qualifications and demonstrated sufficient knowledge, skills and/or abilities.  NCBTMB certificants have earned the NCTM or the NCTMB through the documented completion of NCBTMB’s eligibility criteria (including education), passage of an NCBTMB exam, and a commitment to adhere to the NCBTMB Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

Usage: Voluntary certification is evidence that the articulated standards have been met, but certifications themselves are not the same as licenses to work in a particular field. In massage therapy, it is usually the state regulatory bodies that issue licenses. In some cases, certification programs fulfill some requirements for state licensure.  The NCBTMB exams are utilized by 37 states towards their licensure requirements.  You will find that in fields where little or no regulation is present, certification programs are created by individuals in their field to provide some sort of competency measurement.  Certifying bodies in other fields (such as real estate, law, appraisal, and nursing) recognize competence in advanced or specialized areas not covered by state licensure.  

The credential conferred by these certifying bodies is frequently generic, at the foundation or entry-level, and broad, since it can encompass an entire profession.  Entry-level certifications require minimum knowledge, skills and abilities to competently practice the profession.  Once established, many broad-based programs expand their offerings by creating advanced, specialty or added qualification programs to satisfy the needs of all who seek certification through the same professional organization.  NCBTMB’s creation of the Advanced Certification is an example of this.

Curriculum-Based Certificate   

This is a certificate issued upon completion of a set curriculum.  The educational institution that offers the training also provides the certificate.  The certificate awarded may be broad (encompassing several dimensions of a profession) or narrow (focusing on a specific area).  In massage therapy, many different techniques or modalities off curriculum-based certificate programs.

Usage: Individuals receive this certificate when they complete a course or series of courses and an assessment process.  The assessment is limited to course content. As Ms. Patrick stated “The linkage to specific course content differentiates the curriculum-based certificate from the certificate of knowledge and professional certification.”

Portfolio-Based Certification

There are a few certification bodies who issue certification based upon documentation of predetermined prerequisites, without any sort of assessment.  The recognition is awarded based upon the submission of documentation showing an individual’s experience, expertise and education in a given area.

Certificant 

The individual who has achieved certification is called a certificant.  During the process of earning their certification, they are referred to as a candidate.  

Certificates of Completion

These can be given to an individual upon the completion of a specific learning program, with or without an assessment mechanism.  For example, Certificates of Completion are sometimes given at the conclusion of continuing education courses.  These are sometimes referred to as Certificates of Attendance or Certificates of Participation and are relatively narrow in scope.

Usage: These certificates do not attest to learning achieved ( as opposed to endured – someone can sit through a class and learn very little) and, therefore, are generally considered of little value.  They do serve a purpose for NCBTMB by affording a way for certificants to document their continuing education.  These are not considered true credentials because its recipients are not required to meet specified standards.

Licensure

This is the mandatory credentialing process handled by regulatory bodies.  In massage therapy, it is usually the State Boards who oversee licensure.  Licensure is the legal granting of permission to individuals so that they may engage in a given occupation or profession.  To earn a license, individuals must usually prove that they have attained a minimum degree of knowledge and skills required to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.

Usage:  A credentialing program that is also used in some part of the licensure process is expensive and complex on national and international levels.  Licensure protects the public from incompetent practice, and sometimes chooses to do so by recognizing components of a certification program as part of their requirements.  NCBTMB is pleased to assist 37 states towards their licensure process by providing exams or certifications that are recognized towards their requirements.      

What is the Value of Certification?

Hello, Everyone.

Okay... so this isn't just about "Advanced Certification", but it's about certification in general.  I'd like to start a conversation about the value of certification.  Not just in massage, but in any field.

I know this can be a slippery slope, but there are plenty who are proud of their credentials and find them worth personal time and effort.  I hope they speak up and share their thoughts and feelings here.

Like most other certification bodies, we believe that our national certifications show a commitment to the profession; independently verify skills & knowledge for the practitioners, those they work with (or for), and their clients; and publicly demonstrate that the practitioner has agreed to abide by Standards of Practice and a Code of Ethics created by peers.  The certifications also illustrate a commitment to ongoing education and professional development through the recertification process. These are great things - but fairly general.  Sometimes people need to hear the personal stories and testimonials of individuals.  

So... how has certification been of value to each of you out there, personally?

I'll start.  I am not certified by the NCBTMB: I am not a massage therapist.  I am, however, certified by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) as a Certified Association Executive (CAE). (Note: The CAE certification is completely voluntary and is not tied to regulation, so my experiences may be different than yours.)  While I have seen increased respect from my peers and more job openings for which I could apply, the greatest benefit for me - personally - is the process of learning that I embarked upon when I decided to become certified and that I have continued for each recertification. The CAE program stresses the importance of knowledge in all aspects of association management, regardless of your role or area of specialty (I have chosen to specialize in the management of certification bodies.)  This makes me better able to adapt to professional changes and challenges and makes me feel somehow more responsible.  I think that my credentials mean that I should do my best to serve as a mentor, not just as an example, to new or entry level association or certification professionals.  Sure, the certification looks good on my resume or business cards, but perhaps the other greatest benefit (I know... you can only have one "greatest", but mine are tied!) to my certification is the personal satisfaction of achievement and the confidence that came with it.

What does your certification mean to you?  Please share your story.

Liz

The Eagerly Awaited Needs Assessment Results

Hello, Everyone.  

I’m excited to be able to share the Needs Assessment Survey results with you.  It took us a bit longer than expected to release them, but the psychometric firm that analyzed the data was meticulous and thorough in their review.  It was important to us that the profession as a whole knows that it was not just NCBTMB interpreting the results for itself.  We received bids from three firms and, after review and discussions at the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA) Annual Conference (NOCA is now ICE – the Institute for Credentialing Excellence), we selected Mountain Measurement, Inc.  They were sent all of the survey raw data (the results and responses) and then they compiled, reviewed and analyzed the data to create the Needs Assessment Survey Report. 

The data was reported using descriptive statistics and, where appropriate, analyzed using chi square techniques.  By using this report format, we were able to prevent the results from becoming unwieldy while protecting the integrity of the measureable data.  It would have been impractical to release the raw survey data because of the survey methodologies used (including branching and open-ended responses.)  The data reflects information gathered from everyone – regardless of whether they are "shiny, happy" people or disgruntled individuals.

To me, one of the most surprising things was the fact that almost 25% of the respondents were not certified.  I am grateful to everyone who helped to spread the word of this survey and who helped us get responses from across the profession.  I think their efforts really helped us to get an overall feel for the thoughts of all practitioners, not just those who hold national certification.    

I also found it quite interesting that respondents were split 50/50 on the question of whether a hands-on assessment is necessary.  Hands-on assessments are tricky because they are very subjective.  They are also expensive and difficult to administer.  We have been exploring different forms of computer-based assessments that may be closer to a hands-on methodology than the traditional text-based multiple choice questions, so perhaps they will present an option for the advanced certification assessment. 

Now that these results are in, the Eligibility Subgroup can finish its work on the eligibility criteria.  Once that work is completed, the work on the next survey – the Job Task Analysis Survey – will get underway.  Please keep your eyes open for the JTA announcement and watch the arrow progress up the stairs on the Exam Development Step-By-Step document.

 

Liz

Seasons Greetings!

Hello, Everyone.

Sometimes it seems as if we are so busy that we forget the important, everyday things.  It can be hard to take the time to tell those you love how you feel or to remember to be grateful for the routine things in our lives. 

This may seem a strange forum to share these thoughts, but the NCBTMB would not be here without the many practitioners and affiliated individuals who wish for the profession to continue to grow in respect and who wish to see practitioners acknowledged for the services and skills they offer to individuals across the globe.  We are here because of you.

I am not a massage therapist, but I am proud and thankful to be a massage client.  I can attest to the difference massage therapy has brought to my life.  My massage therapist kept me walking through two pregnancies when I had had to use a walker or cane for the previous two pregnancies (before I found the wonderful Carla – thanks!!).  An old back injury sometimes makes me walk crookedly, and massage provides relief and helps me to return to ‘normal’.

So… thank you for doing what you do.

Since this is the Advanced Certification blog, let me add in a little update.  The data from the Needs Assessment survey is currently being collated and reviewed for accuracy by an independent psychometric consultant.

Have a wonderful winter holiday season, and rest assured that we are keeping busy and continuing to work on the advanced credential.

Liz 

Why? Who? How?

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

 

Creating an Advanced Certification Exam

Hello, Everyone.

I'm Elizabeth Langston and I am the Director of Exam Development for NCBTMB. The development of the new Advanced Certification Credential is such an exciting project and I'm honored to be working on this initiative, which will positively affect the entire profession. 

Since we've announced that we are creating an advanced certification, we've been deluged with questions, comments and feedback from people across the massage industry. The direction for the exam has not yet been determined – that will be discussed through the input of the profession as we analyze the responses from the Needs Assessment Survey. However, you can see that we are committed to making an advanced certification a reality. 

One of the questions I’ve been seeing a lot is “Why? What makes you think we need or want an advanced certification?” The desire for such an advanced certification has been verified through various projects and studies over the past twelve years (based on information gathered from peer groups, past Job Task Analyses, Task Force reports in Board minutes and other empirical evidence.) In 2009, after review of these past efforts and confident that the desire for such a credential was evident, NCBTMB's Board of Directors decided to proceed with the creation of an advanced certification credential and exam. And here we are.

Because the understanding of "advanced" varies by practitioner, the Needs Assessment Survey was designed to determine the type of advanced exam the majority of stakeholders think is needed. We’re reviewing the survey responses now to see what has risen as the primary industry definition of "advanced". Whatever that is, we are planning to make sure the results are made available on NCBTMB's website, on this blog and via other communications, so that everyone can see how the profession as a whole responded to the questions presented.

The Advanced Certification Task Force will use these results as a base to guide the development of the exam – starting with defining the eligibility criteria and drafting the Job Task Analysis survey.  

In the weeks to come, I hope to use this blog as a way to interact with everyone out there, answer questions, kick things around, and provide a place for people to share ideas and, well, even just sound off in general. 

We are here and we are listening! 

Liz

Comment Policy

Hello, Everyone.

NCBTMB wishes to allow an open forum for discussion and we welcome all types of thought –supportive, dissenting, critical or otherwise. We do approve comments, however, and those containing the following content may be deleted or censored:

·         Abusive content

·         Off-topic content

·         Content containing ad-hominem attacks (appealing to one’s prejudices, emotions or special interests rather than to one’s intellect or reason or attacks on an opponent’s character rather than answering his argument)

·         Comments promoting hate of any kind

·         Comments using foul language

·         Comments that are blatantly spam or are geared towards selling something

If your comment doesn’t appear within 48 hours, it may have been erroneously flagged as spam or deleted. Please email us at [email protected] so that we can follow up on the status of your comment.