The Association Blog

Learn the thought behind the new process for accreditation

As someone fortunate to participate in the development of the new Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) exam launched in beta version earlier this year, I wanted to share the thought that went into this process. The experience highlighted to me how our collective expertise and dedication can advance professional standards in animal welfare.

The Development Journey

The path to updating the CAWA exam began in fall 2023, when a group of leaders reviewed the reference list of textbooks and resources that were used to write the current CAWA exam. The team was charged with finding quality resources that were free or less expensive, so that the overall exam prep would be much less costly. A particular focus was placed on incorporating the most current industry standards and management model practices. We removed outdated materials from the list, and added content related to DEI and community relations – and the expected cost was cut in half.

Next, The Association sent out a call for volunteer participation. The response from our professional community was remarkable – and characteristically generous – as more than 90 current CAWAs offered their time and expertise to help shape this important credential.

From June through August 2024, teams worked together to develop assessment items across key areas of animal welfare leadership, using the new reference list. The next three months involved careful review and refinement, with everyone focused on a shared goal: ensuring each question effectively evaluates the knowledge needed for successful and inclusive leadership in animal welfare organizations.

Community in Action

The development process revealed the true strength of our professional community. Virtual review sessions, often occurring multiple times per week, brought together diverse perspectives. Participants meticulously read source materials and engaged in thoughtful discussions to ensure accuracy and fairness in every aspect of the exam. And we made sure to write the questions as country-agnostic as possible – no more questions about US tax or HR laws, so the exam is fair for our members across the world.

Professional Assessment Design

Our work benefited greatly from the guidance of our psychometrician, whose expertise helped establish clear principles for creating effective exam questions:

• Base content on established professional standards and guidelines
• Avoid ambiguity and trick questions
• Maintain relevance across different organizational contexts
• Focus on essential leadership knowledge
• Ensure clear, straightforward construction

Supporting Professional Growth

The new CAWA exam reflects the current knowledge and competencies needed for effective leadership in animal welfare today. For those considering the CAWA credential, this exam represents the collaborative work of many experienced professionals who understand the challenges and responsibilities that you, as animal welfare leaders, are facing.

Looking Ahead

The exam development process demonstrated what our community can accomplish through collaboration and dedication to advancing professionalism in animal welfare. If you have the opportunity to participate in future development cycles, take this unique chance to contribute to the field while learning from colleagues across the industry.

This latest version of the CAWA exam represents countless hours of dedicated work by many individuals committed to advancing professional standards in animal welfare. It’s encouraging to see how collaborative effort can help build tools that support the next generation of animal welfare leaders.

 

Note from The Association: We are seeking 100 real live candidates to beta-test the new exam. Once about 100 candidates take this exam, the scores will be psychometrically verified before the exam moves from beta stage to final stage. This process may take several months, so it will be some time before candidates receive their score and pass/fail status. As such, the beta exam fee will be 50% off.

Please visit our website to learn more and apply for the CAWA beta exam.