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  • Behavior Checklist Exam FAQs

TESTING TIPS & TOOLS

  • Practice scoring the Behavior checklist prior to taking the exam. Click here for video resources.
  • Use the definitions found here.
  • Download the BCL scoring form to record your scores and notes as you watch the video. The scoring form is not required but may be helpful in recording scores as you view the video.
  • If you are less experienced, watch the video completely then score as you watch it again. You can replay the video as often as you would like.
  • You can stop the exam and return to where you left off at any time. Your partial scores will be saved and you can return to review and change any answers from any part of the exam.
  • Your final score will be provided after you have completed scoring all 6 videos. To access your final score, navigate to your dashboard and click on the certificate to review your score.

FEES

  • $65 USD Application Fee to take the certification exam.
  • Certification Certificates are valid for 24 months from the time at which the fee is paid.

CERTIFICATION

  • Certification is achieved by accurately scoring 6 randomly provided videos.
  • Accuracy is calculated by using the Kappa Statistic (Cohen's Kappa) statistical method of your scores for all BCL items for all 6 videos as compared with the "gold standard".
  • Certification is an agreement (Inter-rater reliability score) equal or greater than 0.61.
  • Testers with scores less than 0.61 are allowed to repeat the test one time at no charge. Repeating the test involves scoring another randomly selected set of 6 videos. If you do not achieve a passing score and wish to retake the examination, please contact info@iaabc.org for instructions on how to re-access the examination.
  • Your name is listed on the BCL website for 24 months as a certified BCL evaluator.

BENEFITS OF BCL CERTIFICATION

  • Confidence that BCLs within your organization are consistently scored.
  • Consistent measurements are necessary for accurate calculation of Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) in IWDR and decision-making based on BCL data.
  • The ability to offer evaluations remotely and in person locally and internationally.
  • Enhance your ability to  read and describe aspects of behavior using a common set of definitions.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Anyone is eligible to take the exam.

 EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

  • Sign up to be on the notification list for updates about the BCL and educational opportunities.
  • Visit the IWDR for educational content on learning to score.

Member Testimonials

Here I get support, information and training on current, evidence-based knowledge. A great community of international consultants offers great exchange on each relevant topic to support each other helping animals, their owners or even organizations that take care of animals of different species.

Sylvia Czarnecki, Certified Horse Behavior Consultant

I am proud and honored to be certified by, a member of, and educator for the IAABC. I consider the organization to be the industry standard for well-rounded, quality, ethical animal behavior information that is disseminated in a supportive, effective, collaborative environment. The IAABC works very hard to produce not only quantity of educational resources, but also quality.

Katenna Jones, Certified Dog & Cat Behavior Consultant

As a member, I get to network with experts in my field all over the world. This allows me to expand my knowledge in cat behavior as well as shelter behavior. As the feline behavior manager in an open intake shelter, this opportunity to learn from the best has allowed me to ensure the mental health and behavior needs are met for the cats in our care. The IAABC is the "go to" place for people all over the world to find experts in animal behavior. As a certified member my profile is available for the public to view. Since I earned my certification, I've seen my private business almost triple.

Lisa Stemcosky, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant

a woman with brown hair and a grey dog touch noses

IAABC has been an invaluable learning tool for both myself and staff. As a shelter professional, the webinars provide relevant and up to date information to be used in multiple formats. The online convenience allows for continuing education, minus the travel.The mentorship programs are nothing short of amazing, including the pricing . This organization is always looking forward and growing.

Amy Schindler, Shelter Behavior Affiliate