In today’s ultra competitive business environment, professional certifications and standardized exams play an important role in a person’s future career advancement. Providing an opportunity for a candidate to validate their skills and showcase their knowledge helps them differentiate themselves from the pack.
But what about individuals who have disabilities, preventing them from potentially being on an equal playing field with other candidates? For them, the traditional exam environment can present significant barriers. This goes beyond just being compliant. It also means fostering inclusivity, providing tools for success, and showing empathy. After all, talent is talent regardless of physical or cognitive differences.
At Kryterion, we understand the importance of accessibility, which is why we have implemented a robust suite of features designed to support candidates with a wide range of disabilities, ensuring a fair and comfortable testing experience for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at the steps we are taking to provide an equitable experience for test-takers.
Kryterion’s Commitment to Accessibility
Kryterion employs a proactive approach to providing accommodations. This goes along with our philosophy that “one size fits all” just doesn’t cut it in the world of test delivery and development. Diverse needs require a variety of solutions that focus on flexibility and respect.
That’s why we built our secure, online testing platform, Webassessor, to be at the forefront of accessibility, providing a variety of features that directly address common challenges faced by candidates with disabilities.
Here are just some of the ways that Webassessor supports accessibility:
- Extended Time: Test sponsors can provide accommodations by creating an exam with an extended time limit for test-takers who require it.
- Screen Reader Compatibility: Our platform is fully compatible with screen readers, allowing visually impaired users to navigate and interact with the exam content effectively.
- Text Zooming: Users can zoom up to 400% without experiencing horizontal scrolling, making it easier to read and interact with exam content.
- Keyboard Navigation: Users can navigate through the exam using only their keyboard.
- Non-text Content: We provide the option for alternative text for images and other non-text content.
- Breaks and Reduced Distractions: Webassessor can allow for scheduled breaks as arranged by the test sponsor, and remote testing can offer a more controlled and less distracting environment for some candidates.
A full description of all the ways that Webassessor supports accessibility can be found HERE.
Beyond Features: A Holistic Approach
It’s important to note that accessibility isn’t just about checking off boxes on a feature list. Kryterion’s success in supporting candidates with disabilities stems from a more holistic approach that includes:
- Collaboration with Testing Organizations: Kryterion works closely with the organizations that develop and administer the exams to ensure that accommodations are properly defined, communicated, and implemented through the Webassessor platform.
- Pre-Assessment Communication: We encourage candidates to communicate their needs in advance to allow for proper setup and verification of accommodations, minimizing stress on exam day.
- Ongoing Review and Improvement: We are committed to regularly reviewing and improving our platform and processes to meet emerging needs and best practices in accessibility.
Empowering All Candidates to Succeed
By proactively addressing the diverse needs of candidates with disabilities through our Webassessor platform, we are playing a vital role in democratizing access to professional opportunities and advancement. We pride ourselves on creating an environment where every candidate has the chance to demonstrate their knowledge and skills equally, ultimately leading to a more inclusive professional landscape. When you choose to work with Kryterion, you are demonstrating that your organization places significant importance on fairness, empowerment, and equality.
About Kryterion Inc.
Kryterion Inc. is a global leader in innovative testing and credentialing solutions, helping organizations across various sectors develop and manage their assessments with our advanced test development platform and multi-modal delivery solutions. Established in 2001, Kryterion offers secure, integrated services and extensive support, empowering candidates to demonstrate skills and achieve success in world-class careers.
