From the Accreditation Board
At 1 pm on 12 August 2024, the accreditation exam took off with a hushed hurrah across much of Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. A total of 58 candidates sat the exam, with Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne hosting the highest numbers and remote or alternative venue sittings provided to 6 candidates.
We wish to give a huge thank you to all who took part in the exam, including the candidates, invigilators and volunteers.
More than half the candidates completed our 2024 exam candidate feedback survey, which has provided invaluable information.
Preparation and registration
In the lead-up to the exam, candidates received support via email, as well as registration and exam sessions and workshops. Respondents to the survey found this support “very helpful” in registering and preparing for the exam. Overall, respondents reported that the 2024 Guide for candidates, exam preparation workshops (live), sample exams and emailed instructions were the most helpful resources in preparing for the exam. We have also taken on board many worthwhile suggestions about simplifying and clarifying some aspects of the registration and exam preparation process.
Exam day
Although some venues had technical issues, most venues, including remote and alternative venues, experienced few issues and the exam ran smoothly. Some respondents found that the “workstations were a bit small”, while others thought their venue was “excellent” and appreciated the location and ease of access.
Invigilators are key to everything running smoothly on the day – and our invigilators rose to the challenge, especially those who oversaw venues with technical issues. While some respondents highlighted that further training would help ensure that instructions are delivered more clearly, the majority of respondents rated the invigilators as “very good”. They were described as “welcoming, helpful and timely”, “a calming influence” and “truly excellent”.
Documents and resources
Most respondents reported that they were “very familiar” with using Microsoft Word and PDFs before sitting the exam. However, some respondents experienced “glitches” with their PDFs. We are grateful for the feedback given about using PDFs in the exam and will certainly consider these issues in the future.
Most respondents opted for the Macquarie dictionary online and the Australian Government style manual. Respondents said that it was “great to have access to these” and “excellent” to be able to use such resources.
Two respondents resat the exam and provided feedback about the revised structure. They had opposing opinions about whether it was easier to prepare for the new “Knowledge” section and the revised requirements for passing the “Manuscript” section.
Summary
Overall, respondents expressed their appreciation for the Accreditation Board, invigilators and volunteers for their efforts in running the exam. We have also gathered useful information that will help us develop the registration and exam process, as well as the exam documents themselves.
We look forward to congratulating those candidates who will receive their well-earned accreditation and thank all who continue to contribute to maintaining a high standard for the editing profession.