[size=10pt][size=10pt][size=10pt]CPNRE changing in 2016
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WHY ARE YOU CHANGING TO COMPUTER-BASED TESTING?
Using computers to deliver licensure/registration exams is widely accepted and a growing practice. This change allows the CPNRE® to be offered more often and at more sites across Canada.
IS THE CPNRE CONTENT GOING TO CHANGE BECAUSE OF COMPUTER-BASED TESTING?
The CPNRE’s content will remain the same. The change simply means that test writers will answer examination questions directly on a computer in a test centre rather than responding to examination questions on a paper answer sheet. The CPNRE will also continue to be offered in English and French.
HOW OFTEN CAN THE EXAM BE TAKEN?
Starting in May 2016, there will be approximately 40 testing dates available. We will offer the CPNRE during two windows: from May 23 to June 19, 2016 (approximately 20 days) and September 26 to October 23, 2016 (approximately 20 days). In 2017, this will expand to approximately 60 testing dates.
HOW IS THE CHANGE TO COMPUTER-BASED TESTING BENEFICIAL?
With computer-based testing there are more flexible options to take the exam. Test writers will not be tied to only one test date in one location at one time. Test writers will be able to choose from among several testing dates and times, across more than 100 cities and towns in Canada.
IS ANYTHING DIFFERENT ABOUT HOW TO REGISTER FOR THE EXAM NOW THAT IT IS ON A COMPUTER?
Test writers will still apply with the College of Nurses of Ontario. The difference is that after the College has confirmed eligibility to take the exam, test writers will be directed to a scheduling website to choose where and when to take the exam, schedule an appointment and pay a scheduling fee.
IS PREPARING FOR COMPUTER-BASED TESTING DIFFERENT THAN FOR THE PAPER-AND-PENCIL TESTING?
As previously mentioned, the content of the CPNRE has not changed. It covers the same entry-to-practice competencies, and includes 165-170 multiple choice questions, like it did before. To help writers get used to computer-based testing, an online demonstration will be made available to them once the College has confirmed their eligibility to take the exam.
WILL THE EXAM BE MORE DIFFICULT?
The exam items cover the same range of content. The standard used to establish the pass mark is computed the same way it always has been.
WHAT IF A TEST WRITER NEEDS EXAM ACCOMMODATION?
As per the current practice, test writers requiring exam accommodation will make this request to the College of Nurses of Ontario.
HOW CAN A TEST WRITER BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE CBT TECHNOLOGY?
Assessment Strategies Inc., who has been and will continue to be the administrator of the exam, will have a computer-based testing demo that writers can take to gain experience with the features of the system before writing the exam. This, as well as a demonstration guide, will be made available to writers once the exam provider has received their information. Writers will be notified by the exam provider when access to the demo is available.
IF TEST WRITERS WANT TO, CAN THEY STILL WRITE THE EXAM WITH THE PENCIL-AND-PAPER FORMAT?
No. The CPNRE® will be offered in Ontario via computer-based testing only.
WHICH OTHER REGULATORS ARE MOVING TO COMPUTER-BASED TESTING FOR THE CPNRE?
The following PN regulators will begin to offer the computer-based CPNRE in May 2016:
College of Licensed Practical Nurses of British Columbia
College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta
Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses
College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba
College of Nurses of Ontario
Association of New Brunswick Licensed Practical Nurses
College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia
Licensed Practical Nurses Registration Board of Prince Edward Island
Page last reviewed February 12, 2016
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http://www.cno.org/en/become-a-nurse/entry-to-practice-examinations/rpn-exam/cpnre-goes-online-in-2016/