Effective performance in any occupation requires both hands-on technical ability and a strong foundation of occupational knowledge. NOCTI’s assessment philosophy is built on this principle.
To provide a complete and reliable measure technical proficiency, NOCTI administers both knowledge-based written and skill-based performance assessments, providing a comprehensive view of test taker readiness.
Key Principles of NOCTI Assessments
- Industry-driven and validated: All NOCTI assessments are grounded in current industry standards and developed in collaboration with industry experts at every stage, including test development and standard setting.
- Actionable and diagnostic: Assessments are organized by standards or job functions, helping programs and individuals identify strengths, target gaps, and support continuous improvement.
Knowledge-Based Written Assessments
Knowledge-based written assessments measure key aspects of technical competence, including factual understanding and theoretical concepts related to the occupation. Most assessments include approximately 150 to 200 items and typically take about three hours to complete. Results support informed decisions related to instruction, remediation, and program alignment.
Knowledge-based written assessments measure key aspects of technical competence, including factual understanding and theoretical concepts related to the occupation. Most assessments include approximately 150 to 200 items and typically take about three hours to complete. Results support informed decisions related to instruction, remediation, and program alignment.
Skill-Based Performance Assessments
Skill-based performance assessments use a work-sample format, requiring test takers to demonstrate their abilities by completing authentic job tasks. Test takers work with tools, materials, machines, and equipment representative of the occupation being assessed. Assessment length and complexity vary based on the specific occupational competencies being measured.
Skill-based performance assessments use a work-sample format, requiring test takers to demonstrate their abilities by completing authentic job tasks. Test takers work with tools, materials, machines, and equipment representative of the occupation being assessed. Assessment length and complexity vary based on the specific occupational competencies being measured.
These assessments are administered in appropriately equipped shops or labs, which may be located in career and technical education schools, colleges, universities, or approved industry sites. Area Test Centers (ATCs) are responsible for ensuring facilities meet the equipment and material requirements needed for a valid assessment experience.
Using Assessment Results
NOCTI assessments are designed to measure current occupational proficiency. While they provide valuable insight into skill levels, they do not independently predict future job success. For a more complete evaluation of technical competence, assessment results should be considered alongside other performance measures and evaluation tools.
Delivery Method
Teacher Assessments are available in both online and paper/pencil formats.
Teacher Assessments are available in both online and paper/pencil formats.