To support accurate and reliable results, NOCTI credentials must be administered under consistent, controlled, and proctored conditions.
The Coordinator plays an important role in maintaining testing integrity. Coordinators should ensure that:
- All testing sessions are conducted according to NOCTI guidelines
- Every test taker has an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge
- Testing conditions remain consistent across test takers and sessions
NOCTI credentials are designed to be administered in full and under the same conditions each time. Consistency is essential to supporting valid results.
Planning for Multi-Year Programs
For programs with multiple grade levels, sites should establish a clear plan for underclassmen or other students who are not testing. Students who are not participating in the assessment should not observe not skill-based performance testing. Sites may consider alternative activities such as:
For programs with multiple grade levels, sites should establish a clear plan for underclassmen or other students who are not testing. Students who are not participating in the assessment should not observe not skill-based performance testing. Sites may consider alternative activities such as:
- Job shadowing opportunities
- Field trips
- In-school activities in a separate location
- A designated day off, if appropriate
Proactive planning helps protect test security and supports a fair testing environment.
Assessment Design and Purpose
NOCTI credentials are designed to measure core occupational competencies. Assessments are aligned to national and/or industry standards and are not tied to any single curriculum. This supports a broad and objective evaluation of the knowledge and skills connected to the occupation.
NOCTI credentials are designed to measure core occupational competencies. Assessments are aligned to national and/or industry standards and are not tied to any single curriculum. This supports a broad and objective evaluation of the knowledge and skills connected to the occupation.
Use of Human Volunteers in Skill-Based Performance Testing
Some skill-based performance assessments may require human volunteers, such as patients or customers. To maintain assessment integrity and consistency, appropriate volunteers should be used whenever required by the assessment.
Some skill-based performance assessments may require human volunteers, such as patients or customers. To maintain assessment integrity and consistency, appropriate volunteers should be used whenever required by the assessment.
Students, including those in related programs, should not assist with:
- Skill-based performance testing
- Assessment setup
- Testing support activities
Limited exceptions may apply only when:
- The role is essential and cannot reasonably be filled by an adult
- The exception is clearly stated in the Evaluator Guide and Instructor Prep materials
If an exception is not clearly stated in the assessment materials, it is not permitted. When an exception is allowed, all stated restrictions must be followed carefully. Mannequins may be considered as an alternative when appropriate for the assessment.