Introduction to Self-Testing
Organizations and individuals will use the Body of Knowledge in a variety of ways. One application of the material is its use for self-paced learning. Another potential use is for training programs at regulatory commissions or short courses. Testing allows one to answer a set of questions and identify one’s knowledge gaps. The BoK survey links allows users to find articles and other resources to fill those knowledge gaps. The Self-paced Test is designed to meet these needs.
There are two primary ways to utilize this capability:
1. Take the entire Test at one time (overall performance)
You can take the test before and/or after systematically reading the BoK survey and studying articles linked to the BoK. After completing the exam, you will be given your “score” (percentage correct), and provided with a list of missed questions, with direct links to the points in the BoK that explain why one answer is better than the others. This format could be used as a practice test in a classroom setting or as a screening device to determine qualifications of a job candidate. The links to correct answers will direct the test-taker to portions of the survey that contain links to readings that will help him or her understand the particular regulatory concepts under review.
2. Take Sections of the Test (instant feedback)
Some users will have a good understanding of many topics. By taking the test in segments prior to reading a section of the BoK survey), the user can gauge the extent of his or her understanding. This approach also allows the user to preview some of the key ideas developed in that section of the BoK. Alternatively, the user might take the short tests after reading the survey and studying some of the information resources. In either case, the correct answer will be indicated as you answer each question—so you receive continual feedback. Such self-paced testing allows users to gauge their level of understanding as it directs them to supplementary resources.
Subset of Potential Questions
This testing facility is not comprehensive. The Body of Knowledge contains many more topics that are considered in these questions. If feedback on this feature is positive, the questions can be expanded at some future date. For now, the test should be viewed as providing one way to evaluate one’s knowledge of infrastructure issues.
Multiple Choice
These multiple choice questions do not require the test-taker to analyze complex issues. Nor do they require the test-taker to prepare definitions of key concepts or to translate principles into practice. Rather, they test a person’s ability to identify whether technical terms are being correctly used. Thus, good performance on the test is not an ideal indicator of how well the test-taker can apply knowledge in the complex situations facing infrastructure analysts and decision-makers.
English as a Second Language
In the future, we hope to translate the questions into other languages to increase the usefulness of the testing system. If English is your second language, the degree of difficulty may increase due to problems with the phrasing of questions or definitions of particular words. Please contact us with feedback about how the questions might be rephrased or improved.
