The Big Test of Planning Trivia

[Cardinal]

OK, I took the AICP exam.
Did I think it was a good test? No.
Did I think it fairly assessed my abilities as a planner? No.
Do I think I passed. Yes.

Among those who are now taking the test or took it in the past, what do you think? I believe many of the questions had no clear answer, as individual circumstances could result in different approaches. I think it was overly weighted with questions related to ethics. I also beleive that it failed to measure my true abilities as a planner. Where did it test my ability to communicate through writing, drawings, graphics or maps? Where did it test my ability to conduct a thorough site plan review? Where did it test my ability to formulate effective plans?

About all it did was test my knowledge of planning trivia. Am I really a better planner for having memorized that a particular person is associated with a particular theory? I don't think so. What does that say for the value of the certification? There has to be a better way to determine qualifications. Perhaps in the process, candidatess might even have some personal contact with somebody at APA.

[Chet]

Nice (sarcasm) to see that some things dont change. I plan to take it in November. SO how was the new session format?

[PlannerByDay]

OK, I took the AICP exam.
Did I think it was a good test? No.
Did I think it fairly assessed my abilities as a planner? No.
Do I think I passed. Yes.

Among those who are now taking the test or took it in the past, what do you think? I believe many of the questions had no clear answer, as individual circumstances could result in different approaches. I think it was overly weighted with questions related to ethics. I also beleive that it failed to measure my true abilities as a planner. Where did it test my ability to communicate through writing, drawings, graphics or maps? Where did it test my ability to conduct a thorough site plan review? Where did it test my ability to formulate effective plans?

About all it did was test my knowledge of planning trivia. Am I really a better planner for having memorized that a particular person is associated with a particular theory? I don't think so. What does that say for the value of the certification? There has to be a better way to determine qualifications. Perhaps in the process, candidatess might even have some personal contact with somebody at APA.

I couldn't have said it any better. It sucked. There were things on test the made me pause and think "I need to know this to be certified, Crap, well I guess "B""

The AICP CD-ROM study guide was useless. Now having taken the test I would not have wasted my money. For anyone who is relying on it, Quick study somethignelse.

I too thought the test was not a good one
I too thought the test did a poor job at assessing my abilities as a planner

Do I think I passed. ...... well we'll have to see.

[Cardinal]

Nice (sarcasm) to see that some things dont change. I plan to take it in November. SO how was the new session format?

Let's see, do I mention the cheap monitor that flickered enough to give me a headache? The keyboard with the 'a' and 'c' keys that did not work?

As far as navigability goes, the computerized test was good. But again, the questions were not.

[Richmond Jake]

Cardinal In my view, you've accurately summerized the test. My only additions would be the exam does not evaluate a person's ability to find creative solutions to complex problems and the skill to administer dozens of proposals simultaniously. Did the exam make me a better planner? No. Does AICP after my name give me more respect as a professional? In my view, the jury is still out.

[Seabishop]

I don't take it until next week. If the test is as Cardinal describes it, it seems pretty biased against those without graduate degrees who may have decades of relevant experience in the field but don't know the names behind planning theories.

Time to start memorizing those paradigms.

[pete-rock]

I took the test last year and passed it. The best thing that could be said about the AICP exam is what Cardinal said -- a test of planning trivia.

BTW, although I passed last year, I never paid AICP dues. If I simply pay the cash, will I get my certificate and pin? Or will I have to take the test again?

[NHPlanner]

BTW, although I passed last year, I never paid AICP dues. If I simply pay the cash, will I get my certificate and pin? Or will I have to take the test again?

My guess is that you may have to take the exam again....I'd contact AICP in Washington to find out!

[Lee Nellis]

This won't make anyone happier, I suspect, but remember that this is NOT a test of planning knowledge. It is a membership test. That explains the large number of questions on ethics, theory, etc.

[Cardinal]

This won't make anyone happier, I suspect, but remember that this is NOT a test of planning knowledge. It is a membership test. That explains the large number of questions on ethics, theory, etc.

Sadly, true.

I contrast this to my certification through IEDC. I took six courses, during which I met the education coordinator for IEDC, as well as some of the other IEDC staff. By the time I signed up to take the exam she knew who I was. I received a good deal of information from them ahead of time. The first day of testing was a multiple choice exam and three essay questions. They did a very good job of measuring my knowledge and ability to apply it. That evening I was informed that I passed and was invited to the oral exam the next day. Other certified professionals dedicated the time to interview me and other potential new CEcD's, not so much on knowledge, but on our past experience, commitment to the profession, and future goals. I was informed later that day that I had passed.

Personal interaction. Comprehensive assessment of professional knowledge and ability. Concern that I represent high standards for the profession. Ongoing activity to retain certification (not extra fees, but writing, research, volunteer involvement, and continuing education). These are what makes me value my certification. I see AICP as little more than a requirement for some jobs.

[Dan]

This won't make anyone happier, I suspect, but remember that this is NOT a test of planning knowledge. It is a membership test. That explains the large number of questions on ethics, theory, etc.

Is there an FAICP test?

I recognize some of the names on the list of people who were nominated (not necessarily accepted, but nominated) for FAICP membership, and they don't seem like groundbreaking planner's planners. They're good planners, but not people who that get mentioned in every other issue of Planning magazine. I thought you had to be a planning celebrity, someone who's been around since the AIP and ASPO days, to get cosnidered for FAICP membership.

[Lee Nellis]

Again, FAICP is more about service to the profession, and particularly to APA, than about being a ground-breaking planner. There are a few people who qualify on both counts, I think, but you won't get the F in front of your AICP without being an active supporter/worker in APA, chapters, etc. Its a choice people make.

[michaelskis]

I was told that these are two of the questions on the exam...

question 425

If a planner is sitting at a computer taking the AICP exam and the monitor starts to flicker on and off. What would be the ethical thing to do:

a) Pick up the monitor and through it at the front of the room
b) Beat the monitor with a chair
c) Call your supervisor to ask him/ her what should be done
d) Consult your local ordinance to see if it is in violation

question 426

A home owner in a single family residential district is running a petting zoo / brothel. Your inspection uncovers that he does not have a home occupancy permit, agricultural permit, parking permit, or a permit to house exotic animals and body oils in the same structure. If you close down the petting zoo / brothel, the home owner will not be able to afford to make payments on the house or pay their taxes and the animals will be sold off at auction. What would be the ethical thing to do?

a) Close down the illegal business, and let all the animals run free
b) Quit your job and run for office
c) Call your supervisor to ask him/ her what should be done
d) Consult your local ordinance to see if it is in violation

[SW MI Planner]

Kind of along the same lines... (didn't know if I should start a new thread, and couldn't find the answer in past threads).

I think I am going to take the test in November, and went searching around the APA website. I have to apply to apply, which is $60. If approved, I have to register and pay another fee, correct? How much is the registration fee?

Also, they said a letter is needed from your college? An actual letter, or certified transcripts? Does it matter? They didn't really go into detail (not that I could find anyway).

Did you guys have to pay to take the test, or did your employer? What about membership fee - does your employer pay that, or do you have to?

Thanks!

[NHPlanner]

Kind of along the same lines... (didn't know if I should start a new thread, and couldn't find the answer in past threads).

I think I am going to take the test in November, and went searching around the APA website. I have to apply to apply, which is $60. If approved, I have to register and pay another fee, correct? How much is the registration fee?

Also, they said a letter is needed from your college? An actual letter, or certified transcripts? Does it matter? They didn't really go into detail (not that I could find anyway).

Did you guys have to pay to take the test, or did your employer? What about membership fee - does your employer pay that, or do you have to?

Thanks!

Most of the general questions can be answered here: http://www.planning.org/certification/faq.htm

I believe the exam fee is around 200 bucks.

I did not need a letter from my university when I took the exam. I just listed the degree and university on my application forms. Accreditation and length of time as a professional will dictate eligibility for taking the exam. (Edit: read the FAQ...apparently you do need a letter from the administrative person at the college or university in charge of your degree program to provide written verification now. Wasn't the case 3 years ago.)

My employer paid for the application, the exam fee, and continues to pay my (and my boss') APA and AICP dues. I'd say that 80-90% of the communities around here will cover the fees and dues.

[The One]

I was told that these are two of the questions on the exam...

question 425

If a planner is sitting at a computer taking the AICP exam and the monitor starts to flicker on and off. What would be the ethical thing to do:

a) Pick up the monitor and through it at the front of the room
b) Beat the monitor with a chair
c) Call your supervisor to ask him/ her what should be done
d) Consult your local ordinance to see if it is in violation

question 426

A home owner in a single family residential district is running a petting zoo / brothel. Your inspection uncovers that he does not have a home occupancy permit, agricultural permit, parking permit, or a permit to house exotic animals and body oils in the same structure. If you close down the petting zoo / brothel, the home owner will not be able to afford to make payments on the house or pay their taxes and the animals will be sold off at auction. What would be the ethical thing to do?

a) Close down the illegal business, and let all the animals run free
b) Quit your job and run for office
c) Call your supervisor to ask him/ her what should be done
d) Consult your local ordinance to see if it is in violation

I like b on both questions....ha ha ha...your a funny person..... My #1 reason for taking the test was that I thought some day it would be a requirement in some states to be "certified"....

[Chet]

I think I am going to take the test in November, and went searching around the APA website. I have to apply to apply, which is $60. If approved, I have to register and pay another fee, correct? How much is the registration fee?

This is true. However, all of the application info I can find on the APA website is from 2002 and do not mention the November date! They have not returned calls or emails to me for info. I'm contacting my chapter's PDO.

I think the second fee is $425?

I contrast this to my certification through IEDC. I took six courses, during which I met the education coordinator for IEDC, as well as some of the other IEDC staff. By the time I signed up to take the exam she knew who I was. I received a good deal of information from them ahead of time. The first day of testing was a multiple choice exam and three essay questions. They did a very good job of measuring my knowledge and ability to apply it. That evening I was informed that I passed and was invited to the oral exam the next day. Other certified professionals dedicated the time to interview me and other potential new CEcD's, not so much on knowledge, but on our past experience, commitment to the profession, and future goals. I was informed later that day that I had passed.

I just downloaded the CEcD apps yesterday. It seems like a good way to round out the EDFP certification, which has too narrow of focus IMHO. Although it appears I could test for CEcD without taking "thier" courses, I am going to attend several for exactly the reasons you mention. I want them to know me as much as possible going in, especially with an oral interview requirement.

[Cardinal]

Chet, you might be able to slide in under the interim rules for the CEcD exam. Economic developers with ten or more years of experience can still take the exam this year without taking the courses. If you had the NDC courses you have covered half of the exam already. Planning knowledge makes up a good part as well. Top that off with knowledge of federal programs and common economic development tools. As far as the interviews go, you won't be interviewed by people attending the courses. They are conducted by people like... me. If you test at the right time (hint, hint)* you might not have to give that part too much concern.

As far as AICP is concerned, the folks at APA never return calls or e-mails and make no effort to contact potential candidates. Yes, you pay your $60 application fee, then send in letters from your employers verifying work experience, and contact your university to send confirmation of your degree. A transcript is not required. I think the fee to take the exam was around $300-350. I had to pay it, but can get reimbursed through the GI Bill. My employer pays my APA dues, but I assume I will have to pay for AICP.


* Of course, I would not throw a test, but knowing Chet's background and abilities, I wouldn't hesitate to pass him through this part of the exam.

[Chet]

Chet, you might be able to slide in under the interim rules for the CEcD exam. Economic developers with ten or more years of experience can still take the exam this year without taking the courses. If you had the NDC courses you have covered half of the exam already. Planning knowledge makes up a good part as well. Top that off with knowledge of federal programs and common economic development tools. As far as the interviews go, you won't be interviewed by people attending the courses. They are conducted by people like... me. If you test at the right time (hint, hint)* you might not have to give that part too much concern.

Thanks for the tips. The Fall 2005 expiration of the 10 year rule is what piqued my interest. I do have the NDA courses under my belt, so maybe I should just give it a shot since my employer is paying for it anyway.

[imaplanner]

Ahhh. I will be taking the test this weekend. My brain is filled with useless planning facts, names, dates etc.

How was the computer version of the test? Was it difficult to navigate through it? I would imagine it gives you much more of a headache then a normal paper test.

[Cardinal]

Navigating the test was not a problem. Hopefully, the equipment they use at your testing center is better than what I experienced.

[SW MI Planner]

BTW, although I passed last year, I never paid AICP dues. If I simply pay the cash, will I get my certificate and pin? Or will I have to take the test again?

The one thing that I actually learned from the website is that you have to re-test after four years.

[Cardinal]

The one thing that I actually learned from the website is that you have to re-test after four years.

You do? What, the dues are not high enough, and they are looking for more extortion money?

[jestes]

This won't make anyone happier, I suspect, but remember that this is NOT a test of planning knowledge. It is a membership test. That explains the large number of questions on ethics, theory, etc.

I took the exam yesterday and was also disappointed in the content/make-up of it. It seemed that a disproportional number of the questions were leading to an answer that would provide APA/AICP with final authority over a particular situation (as in most of the ethics questions). Sorry AICP but if an ethics question arrises locally I am not going to consult the AICP District Director or whatever to resolve the situation, it will be resolved locally.

Did I pass? Well, if I didn't it will completely blow my mind because I did not find the test to be particularly difficult.

They said we would need a calculator (to be provided by the testing agency)...I used it twice.

Frankly, I was hoping for more of a challenge from a test that cost me $400.00 to take. In fact, it took me nearly as long to fill out the stupid application as it did to take the actual test.

The one thing that I actually learned from the website is that you have to re-test after four years.

WHAT!!!! Re-test in four years, fugetaboutit.

[NHPlanner]

WHAT!!!! Re-test in four years, fugetaboutit.

That is if you do not stay current on dues, if you stay current on dues, you do not need to retest.