Ep 129 - Exploring Tech Certification Challenges with Brent Morris
Sep 27, 2023
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The podcast explores the importance of failure and training seriously in tech certifications. It also delves into the world of exam security, discussing potential cheating methods and the severe consequences of violations. The episode unpacks Cisco's approach to combat cheating, including the development of valid exam questions and the collaboration with testing vendor, Pearson View. Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the value of genu...
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Quick takeaways
Exam security is crucial to protect the investment of candidates, ensuring the value and integrity of certifications.
Specialized measures like bootable operating systems and browser lock security have increased the security of mobile CCIE labs.
Cisco actively collaborates with Pearson VUE, utilizes advanced technology, and engages with the community to protect the certification ecosystem from fraudulent activities.
Deep dives
Cheating in Certification Exams
Cheating in certification exams is a common problem faced by Cisco and other certification programs. Various methods of cheating include using cheat sheets, hidden electronic devices, writing answers on body parts, proxy testing, and more. The dedicated security team at Cisco works to mitigate cheating by taking down cheat websites, investigating testing centers, and implementing security measures. Real-time data analytics and psychometrics are used to detect suspicious behavior during exams. Cheating not only undermines the integrity of certifications but also fails to demonstrate the necessary knowledge and skills.
Mobile CCIE Lab and Expert Level Exams
The introduction of the mobile CCIE lab has added a layer of complexity to exam security. However, the use of specialized bootable operating systems and browser lock security measures have made it more secure. Cheating in expert level exams is less common compared to associate level exams due to the hands-on nature of the assessments. Cisco works closely with Pearson VUE to identify and mitigate proxy testing, where someone takes the exam on behalf of another person. The enforcement team utilizes evidence such as location discrepancies and fraudulent identification to catch proxy testers.
Importance of Exam Security
Exam security is vital to protect the investments of candidates who study and pass exams legitimately. Cisco aims to ensure the value and integrity of certifications by actively enforcing exam security measures. By preventing cheating, Cisco ensures that certified individuals possess genuine knowledge and skills, making their certifications meaningful and valuable. Cisco's dedicated security team collaborates with Pearson VUE, utilizes advanced technology, and actively engages with the community to protect the certification ecosystem from fraudulent activities.
Maintaining Exam Integrity and Enforcing Actions
The podcast discusses the importance of maintaining the integrity of certification exams and the actions taken to enforce security measures. The speaker emphasizes that while cheating is a concern, the focus is on protecting the investment individuals make in their certifications. Multiple enforcement actions are discussed, including warning letters, bans of varying lengths (six months, one year, three years, or a lifetime), and the stripping of active certifications for lifetime bans. The decisions on enforcement actions are based on the severity of the violation and the evidence collected.
Reporting Suspicious Activity and Available Resources
The podcast highlights the importance of reporting suspicious activity and shares information on resources available to individuals. A dedicated security tip line and email alias are provided, encouraging listeners to report any questionable training programs, websites, or testing centers. Reports can initiate investigations that may lead to enforcement actions against violators. The podcast also mentions the existence of resources on Cisco's website that provide guidelines on what to look for in training materials or practice tests, ensuring individuals have access to reliable and valid resources for their certification preparation.
Imagine this: you're a tech enthusiast who's just passed the Security Plus exam. You're filled with immense pride, but also a newfound understanding of the importance of failure and taking training seriously. We explore this in depth with Tim Bertino, a fellow tech enthusiast who shares his candid insights and experiences. A.J. also talks about his first USNUA meeting and the local NUG network user group he formed — a testament to the power and value of community in the tech world.
We then shift gears and delve into the world of exam security as we welcome Brent Morris, the Program Manager for Cisco's certification, security, investigations, and enforcement. He shares the critical role exam security plays in safeguarding customer investments and maintaining the integrity of Cisco's certification program. From discussing potential cheating methods to the severe consequences of violations, Brent gives us a riveting look at the complexities and challenges in maintaining exam security.
Finally, we unpack the nitty-gritty of Cisco's approach to combat cheating. Brent discusses the development of valid exam questions and the intricate collaboration between Cisco and its testing vendor, PearsonVue. He talks about the complexities of mobile CCIE labs, expert-level exams, and the constant challenge of cheating. By the end of this episode, you'll understand the lengths Cisco goes to preserve the integrity of their certification exams and gain a deeper appreciation for the value of genuine knowledge and skill in the tech industry.
Contact Cisco Exam Security for questions or to report a violation: security-tipline@cisco.com
Follow Cisco Exam Security on Twitter: @CiscoExamSec
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