The AKYLADE exam development process is designed to produce high-quality, skill-based certification exams that meet the needs of professionals and hiring managers in the cybersecurity, IT, and developer industries. This rigorous process adheres to ISO 17024 standards and involves collaboration with highly qualified subject matter experts (SMEs).

Exam Development Steps

The development process includes six critical stages:

1. Job Task Analysis (JTA) Creation
   SMEs define the core responsibilities and required skills for the certification's profession. This involves outlining tasks performed and knowledge required to succeed in the field.

2. JTA Survey
   SMEs participate in surveys to evaluate the importance, criticality, and frequency of each task. The results shape the exam blueprint, ensuring alignment with industry needs.

3. Question Writing
   SMEs write exam questions (also known as items) that align with the certification's objectives. Each question is designed to assess practical knowledge and skills.

4. Question Review
   SMEs review and provide feedback on the drafted questions. This step ensures questions meet certification objectives, are relevant, and align with the exam's overall goals.

5. Standard Setting
   SMEs collaborate with a psychometrician to determine cut scores and evaluate the beta exam results. This ensures the exam's difficulty and accuracy align with its purpose.

6. Angoff Study
   SMEs provide additional feedback to determine the exam's difficulty and fine-tune its scoring system.

Role of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)

SMEs are central to the success of AKYLADE's exam development. They are experienced professionals with at least three years of practical expertise in the relevant certification field. Their contributions are essential for defining job tasks, writing and reviewing questions, and participating in the standard-setting process.

SME Benefits:

• Receive an AKYLADE Exam Developer Digital Badge.
  
  
• Earn continuing education credits (CEUs) for participation.
  
  
• Become eligible for certification by contributing significantly to exam development.

Certification Eligibility for SMEs

SMEs who actively participate in the exam development process can earn the certification they contribute to, provided they meet the following criteria:

• Write and have at least 25 questions approved by two other experts.
  
  
• Participate in the Standard Setting or Angoff Study phases.

Becoming an AKYLADE Exam Developer

Joining the AKYLADE Exam Developer program offers professionals the opportunity to shape world-class certification exams while enhancing their own expertise and professional portfolio.

For more information, contact AKYLADE at sme@akylade.com or visit www.akylade.com.