Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®)

2018 Candidate Handbook

Administered by the National League for Nursing’s

Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program

Revised 3/12/2018

National League for Nursing/Customer Service

Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program
2408A Lebanon Avenue
Shiloh, IL 62221
Phone: (618) 534-0294 / (800) 732-8656
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.nln.org/certification
 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

This handbook contains information about the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®) Examination developed by
the
National League for Nursing (NLN) Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program (ANECP). It is essential
that candidates keep it readily available for reference until they have completed the examination.
Candidates are responsible for knowing its contents.

Contents
General Information .................................................. 2 - 14 Security ........................................................................... 19
Value of Certification ..........................................................2 Practice Examination ...................................................... 19
Goals of CNE® Certification ...............................................2 Candidate Comments ..................................................... 20
Definition of Academic Nurse Educator Practice ...............2 Examination Restrictions ................................................ 20
Eligibility Requirements ......................................................3 Copyrighted Examination Questions .............................. 20
Certification ........................................................................4 Misconduct ..................................................................... 20
Renewal ..............................................................................4 Timed Examination (Image 1) .......................................... 21
About the CNE® Examination ............................................4
Test Format ........................................................................5 Following the Examination ................................. 22 - 23
Examination Test Blueprint .................................................5 Scoring............................................................................ 22
Test Blueprint (Table 1) .......................................................5 Score Report ................................................................... 22
Detailed Test Blueprint (Table 2).........................................6 Duplicate Score Report ................................................... 22
Preparing for the Examination………………… ….. ……...10 Requests for Hand Scoring ............................................. 22
Helpful References ...........................................................11 Scores Cancelled by NLN or PSI/AMP ........................... 23
Sample Questions ............................................................13 Candidates Who Pass the Examination .......................... 23
Candidates Who Do Not Pass the Examination.............. 23
Applying for the Examination .............................. 15 - 16 Confidentiality ................................................................. 23
Fees (Table 3) ...................................................................15
Verification ........................................................................15 Policies ............................................................. 23 - 25
Agreement of Authorization & Confidentiality ...................15 Examination Appointment Changes ............................... 23
Confirmation of Eligibility ..................................................16 Request for Appeal ......................................................... 23
Examination Reapplication ...............................................16 Refund Policy .................................................................. 24
Special Arrangements for Candidates with Disabilities ....16 Refund Application Deadlines …. ................................... 24
Eligibility Extension Deadlines......................................... 24
Examination Administration ................................ 17 - 18 Ethics Case Procedures.................................................. 25
Scheduling an Examination (Table 4) ...............................17 Authorized use of CNE®™ ............................................ 25
Examination Times and Days ...........................................18
Assessment Center Locations .........................................18 Special Forms ................................................... 26 - 30
Examination Appointment Changes (Table 5) ..................18 Request for Special Examination Accommodations ....... 26
Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf .........................18 Documentation of Disability-Related Needs ................... 27
Missed Appointments and Cancellations .........................18 Duplicate CNE® Score Report Request ......................... 28
Inclement Weather, Power Failure or Emergencies ..........18 Withdrawal of Examination Request
........................................................................................ 29
Taking the Examination ..................................... 19 - 21 Eligibility Extension Request ........................................... 30
Identification ................................................................... 19

How to Contact the NLN: How to Contact PSI/AMP:

NLN Customer Service 18000 W. 105th St.
Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program Olathe, Kansas 66061-7543
2408A Lebanon Avenue Phone: (913) 895-4600
Shiloh, IL 62221 Fax: (913) 895-4650
Phone: (618) 534-0294 / (800) 732-8656 Email: [email protected]
Fax: (202) 888-3104 Website: www.goamp.com
Email: [email protected] AMP, a PSI business (PSI/AMP),
Website: www.nln.org/professional-development- an independent testing agency, provides testing and
programs/Certification-for-Nurse-Educators measurement services to the ANECP.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

The Value of Certification Mission

Certification in any field is a mark of
The mission of the Academic Nurse Educator
professionalism. For academic nurse educators, it
establishes nursing education as a specialty area of Certification Program is to promote excellence
practice and creates a means for faculty to in the advanced specialty role of the academic
demonstrate their expertise in this role. It nurse educator.
communicates to students, peers and the
academic and health care communities that the Goals of CNE® Certification
highest standards of excellence are being met. By
becoming credentialed as a certified nurse ♦ Distinguish academic nursing education as
educator, you serve as a leader and a role model. a specialty area of practice and an
Certification is the mark of distinction for nursing advanced practice role within professional
faculty. nursing.

The National League for Nursing endorses the ♦ Recognize the academic nurse educator’s
concept of voluntary, periodic certification for all specialized knowledge, skills and abilities
academic nurse educators meeting educational and excellence in practice.
and practice requirements.
♦ Strengthen the use of core competencies
of nurse educator practice.

♦ Contribute to nurse educators’ professional

development.

Definition of Academic Nurse Educator Practice

The Scope of Practice for Academic Nurse Educators 2012 Revision (NLN, 2012) was developed by the National
League for Nursing’s Certification Governance Committee. The purpose of the document was to “describe
academic nursing education as a specialty area and an advanced nursing practice role within professional
nursing” (p. 4). The description includes a definition, historical perspective, statements of values and beliefs, a
theoretical framework, scope of practice, and competencies or standards of practice of academic nursing
education.

Statements relevant to a definition of academic nurse educator practice include:

“Academic nursing education is the process of facilitating learning through curriculum design,
teaching, evaluation, advisement, and other activities undertaken by faculty in schools of
nursing. Academic nursing education is a specialty area and an advanced practice role within
professional nursing.

Academic nurse educators engage in a number of roles and functions, each of which reflects the
core competencies of nursing faculty (see pp. 14-19). The extent to which a specific nurse
educator implements these competencies varies according to many factors, including the
mission of the nurse educator’s institution, the nurse educator’s rank, the nurse educator’s
academic preparation, and the type of program in which the nurse educator teaches.

Nursing education takes place in diverse settings that include, but are not limited to, technical
schools, hospitals, two-year colleges, four-year colleges, and universities. The implementation of
the academic faculty role may occur in traditional classroom-based environments as well as in
non-traditional environments.” (p. 5).

National League for Nursing. (2012). The Scope of Practice for Academic Nurse Educators 2012
Revision. New York: National League for Nursing.

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Eligibility Requirements

You should make attaining the Certified Nurse Educator designation your goal if, after carefully reviewing the test
blueprint and the eligibility requirements, you determine that your educational and experiential qualifications have
provided you with sufficient opportunity to participate meaningfully in the full scope of the faculty role.

All eligibility criteria for initial certification must be met at the time of application .

Option A: Must meet criteria 1 & 2 Option B: Must meet criteria 1, 2 & 3

1. Licensure: Documentation of valid 1. Licensure: Documentation of valid

licensure/certificate or other documentation of licensure/certificate or other documentation of
unencumbered practice in the country of residence. unencumbered practice in the country of residence.

2. Education: A master’s or doctoral degree in nursing 2. Education: A master’s or doctoral degree in nursing
with: (with a major emphasis in a role other than nursing
education).
• a major emphasis in nursing education
or 3. Experience: Two years or more employment in a
• post-master’s certificate in nursing nursing program in an academic institution within
education the last five years.
or
• nine or more credit hours of graduate-
level education courses*

*Examples of acceptable graduate-level

education courses include: Curriculum
Development and Evaluation;
Instructional Design; Principles of Adult
Learning; Assessment/Measurement &
Evaluation; Principles of Teaching and
Learning; Instructional Technology.

NOTE: Graduate-level research or statistics courses do

not count toward this requirement

Disclaimer:
The Certified Nurse Educator exam was developed to measure competence in the full scope of the academic
nurse educator practice role. Even though the CNE® eligibility criteria have been expanded to include new
graduates of masters and doctoral programs focused in nursing education, the test itself was not developed as a
measure of graduate program outcomes.

A process is available to any individual who wishes to appeal the determination of compliance with CNE® eligibility
requirements. Applicants must submit a written request with supporting documentation. For more information please email
[email protected] or call (618) 534-0294.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION
The certification examination is offered to all eligible candidates,
regardless of age, gender, race, religion, national origin or disability.

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Certification examination and do not achieve a passing score or who
elect not to renew the certification are prohibited from
Academic nurse educators must pass the certification continuing the use of the CNE® designation upon its
examination to become certified. Candidates who meet expiration.
the eligibility criteria and pass the CNE® examination may It is the educator’s professional responsibility to maintain
use the certification mark “CNE®” following their name. certification dates, required documentation and to keep
The certification mark may be used only as long as abreast of changing certification requirements. It is also
certification is valid, after which time certification may be the educator’s responsibility to keep the NLN Academic
renewed. Certification is valid for five years, and begins the Nurse Educator Certification Program informed of any
date the candidate receives an official passing test score changes in address or other pertinent contact information.
and ends on December 31st of the fifth year following the
date of the exam. Certification is a non-transferable,
revocable, limited, non-exclusive license to use the
certification designation “CNE®”, subject to compliance About the CNE® Examination
with the policies and procedures, as may be revised from
time to time. The CNE® examination is designed to evaluate the
candidate’s knowledge about the full-scope of the
Each successful candidate will receive a certificate from academic nurse educator role. The examination consists
the NLN approximately eight weeks after successful of 150 multiple-choice items, of which 130 items count
completion of the examination. Replacement certificates toward the scoring of the exam. Twenty items are newly
can be purchased by sending a written request and the developed items that are being pretested and do not count
required $15 fee to the NLN Academic Nurse Educator toward the candidate’s score. Candidates will not know
Certification Program. Information on the current which items are scored and which are pretest items. The
certification status of an individual will be provided in purpose of pretesting is to determine if items are
writing upon request. The NLN reserves the right to publish statistically sound and fair. Extensive statistical analyses
a listing of successful candidates. NLN owns all rights to are performed on each newly developed item to determine
the CNE®CM designation. how well it performs. Items that have poor statistics are
not used on future examinations. Items that perform well
when pretested are used on future test forms as items that
Recertification/Renewal count toward scoring.

The examination is developed through a collaborative

CNE® certification status is granted for a period of five effort between the NLN and PSI/AMP. Academic nurse
years. The five year renewal cycle is based on the currency educator experts drawn from a wide variety of program
of practice in nursing and changes associated with types and geographical areas write the examination items.
pedagogy (for example, increased focus on simulation).The NLN is responsible for determining the examination
purpose of requiring certification renewal is to ensure the content outline and the examination specifications,
educator has continued to expand knowledge relevant to approving the individual examination for administration,
the role of an academic nurse educator. Use of the CNE® setting the passing score for successful achievement, and
credential is valid until the date indicated on the CNE® determining individual eligibility for taking the examination
certificate issued by the NLN’s Academic Nurse Educator based on eligibility and admission criteria set by NLN.
Certification Program. A certified nurse educator can PSI/AMP is responsible for the computerized testing sites,
obtain certification renewal by maintaining practice examination security, examination administration, the
requirements and a.) fulfilling professional development scoring and statistical analysis of the examination, and
requirements or b.) recertification by re-taking the Certified maintaining an item bank of approved examination
Nurse Educator (CNE®) examination. Please refer to the questions.
Certified Nurse Educator Renewal Webpage available
online at http://www.nln.org/professional-development- The Test Development Committee and members of
programs/Certification-for-Nurse-Educators/recertification. PSI/AMP review the items and assemble each form of the
test. The examination consists of four-option, multiple-
To ensure the integrity of the CNE® certification renewal choice questions written at three different cognitive levels:
process, randomly selected renewal applications will be
audited each year. Certificants who are selected for audit 1. Recall: The ability to recall or recognize specific
will be notified and will be required to provide supporting information.
documentation. It is advisable to keep documentation of 2. Application: The ability to comprehend, relate or
certification renewal activities in the event that a certificant apply knowledge to new or changing situations.
is selected for renewal audit. Certificants who are audited
3. Analysis: The ability to analyze and synthesize
and are not able to provide the necessary supporting
information, determine solutions and/or to
documentation will have their CNE® credential revoked.
evaluate the usefulness of a solution.
If a certified nurse educator allows the certification to
expire, he/she will not be eligible to retake the examination The emphasis is on application and analysis questions.
unless the educator meets the then-current eligibility
requirements. Persons who choose to renew by

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Test Format
Examination Test Blueprint
Computer-based testing (CBT) –
The content of the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®)
The CNE® examination is available via computer-based examination is based on the CNE® Test Blueprint. The
testing, Monday through Saturday at PSI/AMP blueprint was developed from an Academic Nurse
Assessment Centers throughout the United States. Educator Practice Analysis completed in 2011. To ensure
Specific information about PSI/AMP assessment centers the content is current, practice-related and representative
can be found at http://www.goamp.com. of the responsibilities of academic nurse educators in the
United States the practice analysis is updated periodically.

The test blueprint is presented here in its entirety. It is

composed of eight major content areas, each with an
assigned percentage. Each major content area is
represented in every examination with the appropriate
percentage of items. However, not all content sub-areas
are included on every form of the test.

Table 1:

Certified Nurse EducatorCM (CNE®) Examination

Test Blueprint
Percent of
Category Major Content Areas
Examination
1 Facilitate Learning 22%

2 Facilitate Learner Development and Socialization 15%

3 Use Assessment and Evaluation Strategies 19%

4 Participate in Curriculum Design and Evaluation of Program Outcomes 17%

5 Pursue Continuous Quality Improvement in the Academic Nurse Educator Role 12%

6 Engage in Scholarship, Service and Leadership 15%

6A Function as a Change Agent and Leader

6B Engage in Scholarship of Teaching

6C Function Effectively within the Institutional Environment and the Academic Community

Note: Examination forms will contain 150 items including 20 unscored items being pretested for future use.

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Table 2:

Certified Nurse Educator CM (CNE®) Examination

Detailed Test Blueprint
1. Facilitate Learning 22%
A. Implement a variety of teaching strategies appropriate to:
1. content
2. setting (i.e., clinical versus classroom)
3. learner needs
4. learning style
5. desired learner outcomes
6. method of delivery (e.g., face-to-face, remote, simulation)
B. Use teaching strategies based on:
1. educational theory
2. evidence-based practices related to education
C. Modify teaching strategies and learning experiences based on consideration of learners’:
1. cultural background
2. past clinical experiences
3. past educational and life experiences
4. generational groups (i.e., age)
D. Use information technologies to support the teaching-learning process
E. Practice skilled oral and written (including electronic) communication that reflects an awareness of
self and relationships with learners (e.g., evaluation, mentorship, and supervision)
F. Communicate effectively orally and in writing with an ability to convey ideas in a variety of contexts
G. Model reflective thinking practices, including critical thinking

H. Create opportunities for learners to develop their own critical thinking skills
I. Create a positive learning environment that fosters a free exchange of ideas
J. Show enthusiasm for teaching, learning, and the nursing profession that inspires and motivates
students
K. Demonstrate personal attributes that facilitate learning (e.g., caring, confidence, patience, integrity,
respect, and flexibility)
L. Respond effectively to unexpected events that affect instruction
M. Develop collegial working relationships with clinical agency personnel to promote positive learning
environments
N. Use knowledge of evidence-based practice to instruct learners
O. Demonstrates ability to teach clinical skills
P. Act as a role model in practice settings
Q. Foster a safe learning environment

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2. Facilitate Learner Development and Socialization 14%

A. Identify individual learning styles and unique learning needs of learners with these characteristics:
1. culturally diverse (including international);
2. English as an additional language
3. traditional vs. non-traditional (i.e., recent high school graduates vs. those in school later)
4. at-risk (e.g., educationally disadvantaged, learning and/or physically challenged, social, and
economic issues)
5. previous nursing education
B. Provide resources for diverse learners to meet their individual learning needs
C. Advise learners in ways that help them meet their professional goals
D. Create learning environments that facilitate learners’ self-reflection, personal goal setting, and
socialization to the role of the nurse
E. Foster the development of learners in these areas:
1. cognitive ___domain
2. psychomotor ___domain
3. affective ___domain

F. Assist learners to engage in thoughtful and constructive self and peer evaluation
G. Encourage professional development of learners

3. Use Assessment and Evaluation Strategies 17%

A. Provide input for the development of nursing program standards and policies regarding:
1. admission
2. progression
3. graduation
B. Enforce nursing program standards related to
1. admission
2. progression
3. graduation
C. Use a variety of strategies to assess and evaluate learning in these domains:
1. cognitive
2. psychomotor
3. affective
D. Incorporate current research in assessment and evaluation practices
E. Analyze available resources for learner assessment and evaluation
F. Create assessment instruments to evaluate outcomes
G. Use assessment instruments to evaluate outcomes
H. Implement evaluation strategies that are appropriate to the learner and learning outcomes
I. Analyze assessment and evaluation data
J. Use assessment and evaluation data to enhance the teaching-learning process
K. Advise learners regarding assessment and evaluation criteria
L. Provide timely, constructive, and thoughtful feedback to learners

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4. Participate in Curriculum Design and Evaluation of Program Outcomes 17%

A. Demonstrate knowledge of curriculum development including:
1. identifying program outcomes
2. developing competency statements
3. writing course objectives
4. selecting appropriate learning activities
5. selecting appropriate clinical experiences
6. selecting appropriate evaluation strategies
B. Actively participate in the design of the curriculum to reflect:
1. institutional philosophy and mission
2. current nursing and health care trends
3. community and societal needs
4. nursing principles, standards, theory, and research
5. educational principles, theory, and research
6. use of technology
C. Lead the development of curriculum design
D. Lead the development of course design
E. Analyze results of program evaluation
F. Revise the curriculum based on evaluation of:
1. program outcomes
2. learner needs
3.societal and health care trends
4. stakeholder feedback (e.g., from learners, agency personnel, accrediting agencies, advisory
boards)
G. Implement curricular revisions using appropriate change theories and strategies
H. Collaborate with community and clinical partners to support educational goals
I. Design program assessment plans that promote continuous quality improvement
J. Implement the program assessment plan
K. Evaluate the program assessment plan

5. Pursue systematic self-evaluation and improvement in the academic nurse educator role 9%
A. Engage in activities that promote one’s socialization to the role
B. Maintain membership in professional organizations
C. Participate actively in professional organizations through committee work and/or leadership roles
D. Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning
E. Participate in professional development opportunities that increase one’s effectiveness in the role

F. Manage the teaching, scholarship, and service demands as influenced by the requirements of the
institutional setting
G. Use feedback gained from self, peer, learner, and administrative evaluation to improve role
effectiveness
H. Practice according to legal and ethical standards relevant to higher education and nursing education
I. Mentor and support faculty colleagues in the role of an academic nurse educator
J. Engage in self-reflection to improve teaching practices

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6. Engage in scholarship, service, and leadership 21%

A. Function as a Change Agent and Leader
1. Function as a Change Agent and Leader
• Model cultural sensitivity when advocating for change
• Evaluate organizational effectiveness in nursing education
2. Enhance the visibility of nursing and its contributions by providing leadership in the:
• nursing program
• parent institution
• local community
• state or region
3. Participate in interdisciplinary efforts to address health care and educational needs:
• within the institution
• locally
• regionally
4. Implement strategies for change within the:
• nursing program
• institution
• local community
5. Develop leadership skills in others to shape and implement change
6. Adapt to changes created by external factors
7. Create a culture for change within the:
• nursing program
• institution
8. Advocate for nursing, nursing education, and higher education in the political arena

B. Engage in Scholarship of Teaching

1. Exhibit a spirit of inquiry about teaching and learning, student development, and evaluation
methods
2. Use evidence-based resources to improve and support teaching
3. Participate in research activities related to nursing education
4. Share teaching expertise with colleagues and others
5. Demonstrate integrity as a scholar

C. Function Effectively within the Organizational Environment and the Academic Community
1. Identify how social, economic, political, and institutional forces influence nursing and higher
education
2. Make decisions based on knowledge of historical and current trends and issues in higher
education

3. Integrate the values of respect, collegiality, professionalism, and caring to build an

organizational climate that fosters the development of learners and colleagues
4. Consider the goals of the nursing program and the mission of the parent institution when
proposing change or managing issues
5. Participate on institutional and departmental committees

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Preparing for the Examination

Before you begin to study for the Certified Nurse Educator examination, please make sure that you meet the
eligibility requirements. The Certified Nurse Educator examination is designed to assess the knowledge one has
acquired as a result of one’s academic preparation, continued learning, and engaging in the full scope of the
faculty role. To that end, it is recommended that in preparing for this examination, you begin by reviewing the
detailed test blueprint to identify the content areas that will be on the exam and to determine which areas you
should focus your study. Please take note of how each content area is weighted to determine the percentage of
questions that pertain to each area. A recommended reference list is provided specific to each of the content
areas. The recommended reference list is provided to serve as a guide and is not intended to be all-inclusive.
Additionally, sample questions are included on pages 13-14 of this Handbook. These sample questions are
similar to those found on the examination; however, they do not represent the full range of content or levels of
difficulty.

In addition, a Self-Assessment Examination (SAE) is available to help prepare candidates for success in obtaining
the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®) credential. We are able to offer this internet-based, 65-item, multiple-choice
practice exam with the assistance of our testing partner, PSI/AMP. The SAE can be considered a learning tool
and assessment instrument that is parallel in form to the actual CNE® examination. The CNE® SAE is a half-
length examination that will meet the examination specifications including content outline coverage, percentage of
items in each of the content categories and the cognitive complexity item distribution. By taking the SAE,
candidates will be able to practice taking CNE®-type questions, experience computer-based testing, review
rationales for correct and incorrect answers and receive two score reports to assess strengths and areas for
additional study. Please be aware that the CNE® SAE is not intended to replace studying for the CNE®
examination. It should not be inferred that performance on this practice examination will exactly replicate
performance on the credentialing examination. For information about ordering the SAE, please visit
http://www.nln.org/professional-development-programs/Certification-for-Nurse-Educators/exam-prep.

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Helpful References

Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®) Examination

Helpful References

Bastable, S. (2014). Nurse as educator: Principles of teaching and learning for nursing practice (4th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones and
Bartlett Learning.

Billings, D. M. & Halstead, J. (Eds). (2016). Teaching in nursing (5th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders.

Bradshaw, M. & Lowenstein, A. (2014). Innovative teaching strategies in nursing (6th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett
Learning.

Cannon, S. & Boswell, C. (2016). Evidence-based teaching in nursing: A foundation for educators. Burlington, MA: Jones and
Bartlett Learning.

Caputi, L. (Ed). (2015). NLN certified nurse educator review book: The official NLN guide to the CNE® exam. Washington, DC:
National League for Nursing.

Gaberson, B., Oermann, M. & Shellenbarger, T. (2015). Clinical teaching strategies. NY: Springer Publishing Company.

Grossman, S. and Valiga, T. (2017). The new leadership challenge: Creating the future of nursing (5th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: FA
Davis.

Iwasiw, C. & Goldenberg, D. (2015). Curriculum development in nursing education (3rd ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett
Learning.

Keating, S. (2015). Curriculum development and evaluation in nursing (3rd ed.). NY: Springer Publishing Company.

Mastrian, K., McGonigle, D., Mahan, W. & Bixler, B. (2011). Integrating technology in nursing education: Tools for the knowledge
era. Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning.

National League for Nursing. (2018) The scope of practice of academic clinical nurse educator. Philadelphia, PA. Wolters Kluwer.

Oermann, M. (Ed.). (2017). A systematic approach to assessment and evaluation of nursing programs. Washington, DC: National
League for Nursing.

Oermann, M., DeGagne, J.C. & Phillips, B.C. (2018). Teaching in nursing and role of the educator (2nd ed). NY: Springer
Publishing Company.

Oermann, M. H. & Gaberson, K.B. (2018). Evaluation and testing in nursing education (5th ed.). NY: Springer Publishing
Company.

Oermann, M.H., Shellenbarger, T. & Gaberson, K.B. (2018). Clinical teaching strategies in nursing. NY: Springer Publishing
Company.

Smith, M.H. (2012). The legal, professional, and ethical dimensions of higher education (2nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott,
Williams & White.

Revised January, 2018

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Helpful Journals

Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education

EduCause Review

Higher Education Research and Development

International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship

Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing

Journal of Nursing Education

Journal of Professional Nursing

Nursing Education in Practice

Nursing Education Today

Nursing Education Perspectives

Nursing Educator

Quality in Higher Education

Teachers and Teaching: Theory and Practice

Teaching in Higher Education

Sample Questions

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The following sample items are representative of the item format used in the CNE® examination.
These items do not represent all content areas or difficulty levels.

An answer key is located at the end of this section.

1. Which learning activity would provide the learner

with the highest level of cognitive learning? Option A B C D E
N 2 2 113 23 194
a. Attending a lecture Pt Biserial +0.06 -0.16 -0.07 -0.02 +0.09
b. Writing a summary
c. Participating in a case study P value = 0.34 Correct answer = C N = 334
d. Reviewing content using presentation
software Which is the likely cause for this frequency
distribution?

Test Blueprint: 1 A a. The use of five options widens the

Cognitive Code: Application distribution
b. Distracters are too easy to eliminate
c. Average-ability learners have previously seen
this item
2. A learner approaches a nurse educator to d. Learners who scored highest on the exam
discuss a grade earned on a written assignment. got the item incorrect
The learner is upset because the grade is lower
than a peer’s grade. Which is the best
response? Test Blueprint: 3 K
Cognitive Code: Analysis
a. “The paper was graded using the rubric
provided in the syllabus, however we can
discuss some areas in which your paper 4. A nurse educator is reviewing program
could be improved.” evaluation data. A benchmark indicating that
b. “I will review your paper one more time by 85% of learners will pass the NCLEX® exam on
comparing it to your peer’s papers.” the first attempt has not been met for the
c. “If there is an area in your paper that you past two years. Which would be a priority
think needs reevaluation, please provide recommendation for the nurse educator to
documentation to support your concern and make?
I will issue you extra credit points.”
d. “Before I can compare your paper to your a. Lower the NCLEX® pass rate benchmark to
peer’s, I need permission from your peer.” 80%
b. Implement an exit exam prior to graduation
c. Evaluate the nursing program’s curriculum
Test Blueprint: 2 D d. Increase the passing grade for each nursing
Cognitive Code: Application course to 85%

Test Blueprint: 4 L
Cognitive Code: Analysis

5. A novice nurse educator has just completed the

3. A nurse educator is reviewing the item-analysis first year of teaching and is meeting with a
of a multiple-choice question. An item on the mentor to plan professional development
examination performed in this manner: activities for the next academic year. Which

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statement by the novice nurse educator would
require follow up by the mentor? 7. Which action by a nurse educator
demonstrates scholarly activity?
a. "I am interested in co-teaching a class with a
pharmacist from a local hospital." a. Creating a home page noting professional
b. "I want to learn how to incorporate some achievements
web-based assignments for learners next b. Submitting a grant to fund acquisition of a
semester." patient simulator
c. "I need to learn more about how to write c. Volunteering clinical expertise to a not-for-
multiple-choice test questions that assess profit organization
critical thinking." d. Coordinating a walk-a-thon to raise funds for
d. "I plan to run for president of the college children with cancer
senate in the fall."

Test Blueprint: 5 F Test Blueprint: 6 B 1

Cognitive Code: Application Cognitive Code: Application

6. A nurse educator is the chairperson of the 8. A nurse educator is participating on a curriculum

curriculum committee and desires to make major committee involved in a major revision of the
curriculum changes. To fulfill the role of change nursing curriculum. Which is the first step?
agent and leader it would be essential for the
nurse educator to initiate which action? a. Aligning the new curricular goals with the
mission of the institution
a. Recognize that nurse educators with a spirit of b. Securing faculty representation from another
inquiry about learning are most likely to department on the curriculum committee
support change c. Ensuring that the faculty members agree on
b. Include nurse educators affected by proposed the program outcomes
changes in the decision making process d. Developing a grant proposal to secure
c. Minimize conflict in order to facilitate the external funding for curriculum revisions
process of change
d. Identify that the utilization of change theory
will allow for a clear cut process for Test Blueprint: 6 C 3
successful change Cognitive Code: Analysis

Test Blueprint: 6 A 6
Cognitive Code: Application

Answer Key:
1.) C 2.)A 3.)D 4.)C 5.)D 6.)B 7.)B 8.) A

Visit www.nln.org/professional-development-programs/Certification-for-Nurse-Educators/exam-prep
for information about the
Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®) Self-Assessment Examination (SAE)

APPLYING FOR THE EXAMINATION that all deadlines are met. Your careful attention will enable
prompt and efficient processing. NLN reserves the right to
It is your responsibility to ensure that the online application verify information supplied by each candidate. An
and any requested supporting documents are accurately application is considered complete only if all requested
submitted, that the information provided is accurate, and information is accurate; if the candidate is eligible for the

14
 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
examination; and if fees are submitted. Please note that Agreement of Authorization & Confidentiality
the name and address provided by you during
registration must exactly match both forms of your The ANECP is committed to protecting confidential and/or
valid identification. See p. 19 for information about proprietary information related to candidates, certificants
proper identification. Any misrepresentation of information and the examination development and maintenance
shall be considered grounds for prohibition from testing or process.
revocation of certification. Candidates must apply and
register for the CNE® examination online at: Information about candidates for testing and their
http://www.nln.org/professional-development- examination results are considered confidential. Exam
programs/Certification-for-Nurse-Educators. The scores will be released only to the individual candidate
registration tab can be found on the left side bar of the unless a signed release is provided. Information submitted
CNE® home page. Applications will not be accepted via by candidates or CNE®s in connection with an application
mail or fax. or recertification application is considered confidential.

Do NOT send examination application or fees if the When applying online, candidates will be required to read
eligibility requirements have not been met at the time of and acknowledge understanding of the following
application. Agreement of Authorization and Confidentiality:

Fees “I have read and understand the information provided in

the candidate handbook. In making this application, I fully
Candidates must submit the appropriate fee with the understand that it is an application only and does not
complete examination application. Payment may be guarantee certification. I attest by answering “yes” to the
made by credit card only (Visa, MasterCard, American statement “I have read and understand the preceding
Express or Discover). Company checks, personal information” that I currently meet the eligibility
checks, money orders and cash are not acceptable requirements and I authorize the NLN to make whatever
forms of payment. You must submit a valid credit card inquiries and investigations that it deems reasonable to
in order for your application and registration to be verify my credentials and professional standing. I
processed. understand that false information may be cause for
revocation of this application without a refund of any fees
paid, loss of the credential (if currently held), or denial as a
candidate to take the examination. I understand that I can
Table 3: be disqualified from taking or completing the examination,
NLN Non- or from receiving examination scores if the Certification
Certification Exam member member Committee of the NLN determines in its sole discretion
Fee* Fee* that I was engaged in collaborative, disruptive or other
Initial testing $400 $500 prohibited behavior during the administration of the
Retest $350 $450 examination. I understand and agree that if I am certified
following acceptance of this application and successful
completion of the examination, such certification does not
*The above fees apply to testing within the constitute NLN’s warranty or guarantee of my competency
continental U.S. and Hawaii. If you require testing at to practice as an academic nurse educator. I understand
a testing center located within one of the U.S. that the initial certification period is five calendar years
Territories, please contact the NLN’s Academic following successfully passing the examination, and I
Nurse Educator Certification Program at 618-453- agree to meet the then-current requirements if I wish to
5896 or via email at [email protected] to discuss maintain active certification status thereafter. I further
testing arrangements and the applicable fees. understand that the governing body has the authority to
change requirements to attain and maintain certification
Verification from time to time. If I am certified, I authorize NLN to
include my name in a list of certified individuals and agree
Information on applications will be verified. Authorized to use the CNE® designation and related NLN trade
personnel will check applications for accuracy of names, trademarks, and logos only as permitted by NLN
information. Information may be verified by telephone, policies. I understand and agree that the NLN may also
letter or other means. All information gained through use anonymous and aggregate application and
verification procedures will be kept confidential except in examination data for statistical analysis. I further agree to
instances where the law or professional obligations require abide by the policies and procedures as set forth in the
disclosure of facts. Should any information on the candidate handbook.”
application be found false or materially misleading, the
applicant will be notified and declared ineligible to
continue in the certification process.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
Examination Application

Visit www.nln.org/professional-development-programs/Certification-for-Nurse-Educators for the current test application.

Confirmation of Eligibility examination application and examination fee is required for

Computer-Based Testing each retest. Please see the fee schedule on page 15.

You will receive acknowledgement of receipt of your Special Arrangements for Candidates with
application via email immediately after your application has Disabilities
been received by NLN’s Academic Nurse Educator
Certification Program. Once the application is processed, PSI/AMP and the NLN comply with the Americans with
a confirmation notice of eligibility will be sent to you by Disabilities Act (ADA) and strive to ensure that no individual
PSI/AMP via regular mail or email (if a usable email with a disability is deprived of the opportunity to take the
address has been provided). The confirmation notice will examination solely by reason of that disability. PSI/AMP
be sent within three weeks of finalizing registration. If will provide reasonable accommodations for candidates
you do not receive a confirmation notice within three with disabilities. Wheelchair access is available at all
weeks of completing registration, please contact the established Assessment Centers. Candidates with visual,
NLN’s Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program at sensory or physical disabilities that would prevent them
(618) 534-0294 or [email protected] as soon as from taking the examination under standard conditions
possible. Failure to notify the NLN about a missing may request special accommodations and arrangements.
confirmation notice of eligibility will result in your inability To request special accommodations, complete the
to schedule and sit for the CNE® examination. Request for Special Examination Accommodations and the
Documentation of Disability-Related Needs forms located
Examination Reapplication at the end of this handbook. Additionally, you must notify
the NLN’s Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program
If you were unsuccessful in your examination attempt, you by calling (618) 534-0294 or email [email protected] to
may reapply. An individual may take the CNE® notify us that you have submitted an online registration
examination a maximum of four times per year or once form and will be submitting a written request for special
every 90 days and not more than once per quarter. An examination accommodations. You must also inform
PSI/AMP of the need for special accommodations when
scheduling an examination appointment.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
EXAMINATION ADMINISTRATION

Scheduling a Computer-Based Examination with PSI/AMP

The confirmation notice of eligibility contains a web address and toll-free telephone number for the candidate to contact
PSI/AMP. The candidate must be prepared to confirm a date and ___location for testing and to provide the Candidate ID number
shown in the confirmation notice as a unique identification number. The examinations are administered by appointment only
Monday through Saturday. Individuals are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Refer to the chart below. There are
two ways to schedule an appointment for the computer-based Certified Nurse Educator Examination:

♦ Schedule Online: The candidate may schedule a testing appointment online at any time by using the Online
Application/Scheduling service at www.goamp.com. To use this service, follow these easy steps:
o Go to www.goamp.com and select “Candidates.”
o Follow the simple, step-by-step instructions to complete the scheduling process.
o If special accommodations are being requested, please submit the Request for Special Examination
Accommodations form included in this handbook. To schedule your examination, contact PSI/AMP at
1-888-519-9901 and notify candidate services representative that you have requested the accommodation.

OR

♦ Telephone Scheduling: Call PSI/AMP at 1-888-519-9901 to schedule a testing appointment. This toll-free number is
answered from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Central Time) Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday and
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday.

When scheduling an examination, be prepared to confirm a ___location, identify a preferred

date and time for testing, and provide your Candidate ID number as a unique identification
number. When you contact PSI/AMP to schedule an examination appointment, you will be
notified of the time to report to the center. Please make a note of it because you will NOT
receive an admission letter; however email confirmation will be provided to those applicants
for whom an email address is provided.

Table 4:
Depending on availability, your
If you contact PSI/AMP by
examination may be
3:00 p.m. Central Time on…
scheduled as early as…
Monday Wednesday

Tuesday Thursday

Wednesday Friday/Saturday

Thursday Monday

Friday Tuesday

Candidates who arrive at an Assessment Center later than 15 minutes from the
scheduled appointment time will not be admitted. Unscheduled candidates
(walk-ins) will not be admitted to an Assessment Center.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

Examination Times and Days

The Certified Nurse Educator examination is delivered by

computer at approximately 300 PSI/AMP Assessment Missed Appointments and Forfeitures
Centers throughout the United States. The examination is
administered by appointment only Monday through A candidate will forfeit the application and all fees paid to
Saturday. Appointment starting times may vary by take the examination under the following circumstances:
___location. Candidates are scheduled on a first-come, first-
served basis. The examination is not offered on the ♦ The candidate wishes to withdraw the application
following holidays: after the refund application deadline (see p. 24).
New Year’s Day
♦ The candidate wishes to reschedule an
Martin Luther King, Jr Day
examination but fails to contact PSI/AMP at least
Memorial Day
two business days prior to the scheduled testing
Independence Day
session.
Labor Day
Thanksgiving
♦ The candidate wishes to reschedule a second
(and the following Friday)
time.
Christmas Eve Holiday
Christmas Day
♦ The candidate appears more than 15 minutes late
for an examination.

♦ The candidate fails to report for an examination

Assessment Center Locations appointment.

PSI/AMP Assessment Centers have been selected to Candidates who forfeit their application and fees for any of
provide accessibility to the most candidates in all states these reasons will be required to submit a new application
and major metropolitan areas. Some PSI/AMP Assessment and examination fees in order to be eligible to sit for the
Centers are located in H&R Block offices. A current listing examination.
of PSI/AMP Assessment Centers, including addresses and
driving directions, may be viewed at PSI/AMP’s website
located at www.goamp.com.

Examination Appointment Changes

A candidate may reschedule a CBT examination Inclement Weather, Power Failure or Emergencies
appointment once, at no charge, within a testing period by
calling PSI/AMP at 1-888-519-9901 at least two business In the event of inclement weather or unforeseen
days prior to the scheduled testing session. (See table emergencies on the day of an examination, PSI/AMP will
below.) Refer to page 24 for information about extending determine whether circumstances warrant the cancellation,
the eligibility period. and subsequent rescheduling, of an examination. The
examination usually will not be rescheduled if the
Assessment Center personnel are able to open the
Table 5: Assessment Center. If power to a testing center is
temporarily interrupted during an administration, your
examination will restart where you left off and you may
PSI/AMP must be continue the examination.
If the contacted by 3:00 p.m.
Examination is Central Time to reschedule Candidates may visit PSI/AMP’s website (24 hours/day)
scheduled on… the Examination by the prior to the examination to determine if PSI/AMP has been
previous… advised that any Assessment Centers are closed. Every
Monday Wednesday attempt is made to administer the examination as
scheduled; however, should an examination be canceled
Tuesday Thursday
at an Assessment Center, all scheduled candidates will
Wednesday Friday receive notification following the examination regarding
Thursday Monday rescheduling or reapplication procedures
Friday/Saturday Tuesday

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

TAKING A COMPUTER-BASED EXAMINATION AT A PSI/ AMP ASSESSMENT CENTER

The examination will be given by computer at a PSI/AMP Assessment Center. Candidates do not need any computer
experience or typing skills to take the examination. On the day of the examination, report to the Assessment Center no
later than the scheduled examination time. Look for signs indicating ‘PSI/AMP Assessment Center Check-in.’ If you
arrive more than 15 minutes after the scheduled testing time, you will not be admitted.

Identification

To gain admission to the Assessment Center or the testing The following security procedures apply during the
room for an examination, a candidate must present two examination:
forms of identification, one with a current photograph.
Both forms of identification must be current and include ♦ Examinations are proprietary. No cameras, notes,
the candidate’s current name and signature and must tape recorders, pagers, cellular phones or any
match the candidate’s registration information. The other device that could be used to record all or
candidate will be required to sign a roster for verification of part of the examinations, are allowed in the
identity. examination room.

Acceptable forms of photo identification include a ♦ No calculators are permitted.

current driver’s license with photograph, a current state
identification card with photograph, a current passport, ♦ No guests, visitors or family members are allowed
or a current military identification card with photograph. in the examination room or reception areas.
Employment ID cards, student ID cards and any type of
temporary identification are NOT acceptable as the ♦ Candidates may be subjected to a metal detector
primary form of identification. scan upon entering the examination room.

CANDIDATES MUST HAVE PROPER IDENTIFICATION ♦ No personal items, valuables, or weapons should
IN ORDER TO GAIN ADMISSION TO AN ASSESSMENT be brought to the Assessment Center. Personal
CENTER FOR COMPUTER-BASED TESTING. belongings (keys and wallets) are locked in a
soft locker provided at the Assessment Center.
Failure to provide appropriate identification at the time of Coats must be left outside the testing room.
the examination is considered a missed appointment and PSI/AMP is not responsible for items left in the
there will be no refund of the examination fee. reception area.

Security Practice Examination

PSI/AMP maintains examination administration and At the testing carrel, the candidate will be instructed on-
security standards that are designed to ensure that all screen to enter the Candidate ID number. The candidate’s
candidates are provided the same opportunity to photograph, taken before beginning the examination, will
demonstrate their abilities. The Assessment Center is remain on-screen throughout the examination session.
continuously monitored by audio and video surveillance This photograph will also be printed on the score report.
equipment for security purposes. Prior to attempting the examination, the candidate will be
given the opportunity to practice taking an examination on
Candidates who voluntarily exit the examination at any the computer. The time used for this practice examination
point during the test will be considered finished and their is NOT counted as part of the examination time or score.
test will be scored. Candidates who voluntarily exit the When the candidate is comfortable with the computer
examination before they are finished will not have the testing process, he/she may quit the practice session and
opportunity to restart the examination, or to answer begin the timed examination.
incomplete items.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

Candidate Comments Copyrighted Examination Questions

During the examination, comments may be provided for All examination questions are the copyrighted property of
any question by clicking on the button displaying an the National League for Nursing. It is forbidden under
exclamation point (!) to the left of the Time button. This federal copyright law to copy, reproduce, record, distribute
opens a dialogue box where comments may be entered. or display these examination questions by any means, in
Candidates will not be provided additional time to submit whole or in part, or to prepare any derivative work based
comments nor will comments be considered in the course on them. Doing so may subject the candidate to severe
of scoring the completed examination. Comments will be civil and criminal penalties.
reviewed, but individual responses will not be provided.

Misconduct

Individuals who engage in any of the behaviors listed

Examination Restrictions below may be dismissed from the examination. In such
instances, the candidate’s score will not be reported and
♦ No personal belongings are allowed in the examination fees will not be refunded.
Assessment Center.
Examples of candidate misconduct include:
♦ Pencils are provided during check-in.
♦ Failing to follow the test administrator’s directions
♦ During check-in, candidates are provided with
scratch paper to use during the examination, ♦ Creating a disturbance, being abusive, or being
which must be returned to the supervisor at the otherwise uncooperative
completion of testing, or the candidate will not
receive a score report. No documents or notes of ♦ Using electronic communications equipment such
any kind may be removed from the examination as pagers or cellular phones.
room.
♦ Giving or receiving help during the examination or
♦ No questions concerning the content of the being suspected of doing so
examination may be asked during the examination.
♦ Attempting to record examination questions or
♦ Eating, drinking or smoking will not be permitted in make notes
the Assessment Center.
♦ Attempting to take the examination for someone
♦ The candidate may take a break to visit the else
restroom or reception area during the examination,
but will not be allowed additional time to make up ♦ Removing or attempting to remove scratch paper
for time lost during breaks. from the test center

♦ The computer will keep official time. ♦ Using prohibited aids, such as reference materials,
mechanical listening devices, and recording or
photographic devices

♦ Attempting to tamper with the operation of the

computer

♦ Leaving the testing room without permission

♦ Sharing information about the test and test

questions with any unauthorized persons

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

Timed Examination

Following the practice examination, the actual timed The candidate may change her/his answer as many times
examination will begin, with instructions for taking the as she/he wishes during the examination time limit. To
examination provided on-screen. Time spent on the move to the next question, click on the forward arrow (>) in
examination will be monitored on the computer screen. the lower right portion of the screen. This action will move
The candidate will have 3 hours to complete the the candidate forward through the examination question
examination. The examination will terminate if testing by question. To review any question, click the backward
exceeds the time allowed. Click on the “Time” box in the arrow (<) or use the left arrow key to move backward
lower right portion of the screen to monitor testing time. A through the examination. An examination question may be
digital clock indicates the time remaining to complete the left unanswered for return later in the examination session.
examination. The Time feature may be turned off during Questions may also be bookmarked for later review by
the examination. Only one examination question is using the mouse and clicking in the blank square to the
presented at a time. The question number appears in the right of the Time button. Click on the hand icon to advance
lower right portion of the screen. Choices of answers to to the next unanswered or bookmarked question on the
the examination questions are identified as A, B, C, or D. examination. To identify all unanswered and bookmarked
The candidate must indicate her/his choice by either questions, repeatedly click on the hand icon.
typing in the letter in the response box in the lower left
portion of the computer screen or clicking on the option When the examination is completed, the number of
using the mouse. To change an answer, enter a different examination questions answered is reported. If not all
option by pressing the A, B, C, or D key or by clicking on questions have been answered and there is time
the option using the mouse. remaining, return to the examination and answer those
questions. Be sure to provide an answer for each
examination question before ending the examination.
There is no penalty for guessing.

Image 1:

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
FOLLOWING THE EXAMINATION

Scoring reports prior to leaving the Assessment Center, after

turning in the scratch paper and pencil that was provided.
The passing score for the CNE® examination was For security and identification purposes, the score report
established via a systematic procedure (a standard will include the candidate’s digitized color photograph. The
setting study) that employed the judgment of academic score report will indicate “pass” or “fail.” Additional detail
nurse educators representing various geographical areas is provided in the form of raw scores by major content
and program types. The methodology for the passing category. A raw score is the number of questions
point study is known as a modified Angoff technique, in answered correctly. Pass/fail status is determined by the
which content experts evaluated each item on the raw score. Even though the examination consists of 150
examination to determine the score that would best questions, the candidate’s score is based on 130
differentiate minimally-competent academic nurse questions; the remaining 20 questions are being pretested
educators deserving to be awarded certification from for use as a score item on future examination forms.
those who have not demonstrated sufficient knowledge.
Passing the examination is determined by the amount of
knowledge you display in comparison to this standard, and Duplicate Score Report
not on the other candidates taking the examination.
Consistency of the passing point for future examination Candidates may purchase additional copies of their score
forms is assured through statistical equating procedures. reports at a cost of $25 per copy. Requests must be
Although the number of correct responses required to submitted to PSI/AMP, in writing, within 12 months after
pass (the passing point) may vary depending on the the examination.
difficulty of the examination form, the same amount of
knowledge has been demonstrated for scores at the The request must include the candidate’s name,
passing point. Candidate ID number, mailing address, telephone number,
date of examination and the name of the examination
The CNE® examination consists entirely of multiple-choice taken. Submit the completed form located at the end of
items. The number of items answered correctly this handbook with the required fee payable to “PSI/AMP.”
determines your score; there is no penalty for incorrect Duplicate score reports will be mailed within approximately
answers. Therefore, it is to your advantage to answer two weeks after receipt of the request.
every item. On a computer-based test you will have the
option of bookmarking an item so you can return to the
question later if time permits. Requests for Hand Scoring

Score Report Because the computer instantly records the response

provided by the candidate, hand scoring is not relevant for
After completing the examination, candidates are asked to those who take the examination via computer-based
answer a short evaluation of their testing experience. Then, testing (CBT). No hand scoring will be provided for
they are instructed to report to the examination proctor to computerized examinations.
receive their score report. Candidates will receive score

22
 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

Scores Cancelled by NLN or PSI/AMP POLICIES

NLN and PSI/AMP are responsible for the integrity of the

scores they report. On occasion, occurrences, such as Examination Appointment Changes
computer malfunction or misconduct by a candidate, may
cause a score to be suspect. NLN and PSI/AMP are A candidate may reschedule an examination appointment
committed to rectifying such discrepancies as one time at no charge by contacting PSI/AMP Candidate
expeditiously as possible. NLN may void examination Services at (888) 519-9901 at least two business days
results if, upon investigation, violation of its regulations is prior to the scheduled computer-based testing session.
discovered. See page 18 for observed holidays.

Candidates Who Pass the Examination Request for Appeal

Candidates who pass the Certified Nurse Educator Adverse decisions made by the Certification Commission
examination are allowed to use the designation “CNE®” may be appealed. Appeal requests must be received in
after their name upon receiving an official passing test writing within 30 days of notification of the action being
score. This includes receiving an onsite score report at the appealed. Supporting documentation must accompany the
testing center. Proper use of the credential is typically written request before it will be considered. Requests for
conveyed as highest degree earned, license, certification, an appeal must be mailed to: National League for Nursing,
and fellowship appointments. Candidates will receive a Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program, 1840
certificate and CNE® pin from the NLN’s Academic Nurse Innovation Drive, Suite 106, Carbondale, IL 62903.
Educator Certification Program via U.S. postal mail
approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the passing score is
achieved. NLN reserves the right to recognize publicly any
candidate who has successfully completed the CNE®
certification examination and earned the certified nurse
educator credential.

Candidates Who Do Not Pass the Examination

Candidates who do not pass the examination will need to

submit a new application and the retest examination fee
(see p. 16) if they wish to pursue certification. Please
review rules of eligibility before submitting a new
application and fee.

An individual may take the CNE® examination a

maximum of four times per year or once every 90 days
and not more than once per quarter.

Confidentiality

All information gained through the application, recertification, and verification process will be kept
confidential except in instances where the law or professional obligations require disclosure of facts.
Information about candidates for testing and their examination results are considered confidential.
Studies and reports concerning candidates will contain no information identifiable with any
candidate, unless authorized by the candidate.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

Refund Policy

Refunds are made at the discretion of the NLN Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program. A non-refundable processing
charge of $100 of the registration fee will be incurred by the candidate. This processing charge may not be applied to future
CNE® examination application requests. Candidates who withdraw their application must repeat the certification registration
process in its entirety, including the full payment, to sit for a future certification examination. In order to receive a partial refund,
we must receive your Withdrawal of Examination Request (located at the end of this handbook) postmarked by the refund
application deadline. The request may also be returned by email or fax as indicated on the form. The refund application
request form must be received seven days prior to the end of the examination eligibility period. No refunds will be
issued to any candidate requesting to withdraw their examination application after the refund application deadline.

Candidates will forfeit the examination fee if they fail to report for an examination appointment, arrive more than 15 minutes late
for an appointment, or fail to present appropriate identification on the day of the examination. Such candidates may reapply by
submitting a new application and full examination fee. Candidates who wish to take the examination must reapply for the
examination by submitting a new application and full examination fee. The refund policy is subject to change without prior
notice.

Extending Testing Eligibility

You may transfer your examination test date by extending your eligibility period for an additional ninety days. The testing
period can be extended only one time. A non-refundable processing charge of $100 will be incurred. Please be aware that the
NLN must receive your request to transfer your exam session and re-schedule at least four business days prior to your original
exam date or you will be marked absent and forfeit all registration fees paid.

1. If you would like to extend your eligibility period and you have NOT scheduled an appointment with PSI/AMP, please
complete and submit the Testing Period Eligibility Extension Request form located at the end of this handbook. All requests
must be received by the ANECP office four business days prior to the end of the eligibility period.

2. If you would like to extend your eligibility period and you HAVE scheduled an appointment with PSI/AMP, please complete
the Testing Period Eligibility Extension Request form located at the end of this handbook at least four business days prior to
your scheduled examination appointment. Either email or fax the form with payment information to the Academic Nurse
Educator Certification Program for processing. The ANECP office must receive your request at least four business days prior
to your scheduled examination appointment.

You may only schedule one appointment at a time per examination. All fees are non-refundable and non-
transferable. If you need to reschedule your appointment, you may do so ONE time at no charge by
contacting PSI/AMP Candidate Services at (888) 519-9901 at least two business days prior to the
scheduled examination. A request to extend the testing eligibility period will result in a $100 fee.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
Ethics Case Procedure

We recognize and implement as a framework the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics (found at this
link: http://ethics5.com/a/ana-code-of-ethics-book-w735/) and the NLN Ethical Principles for Nursing Education
document (found at this link: http://nursingworld.org/DocumentVault/Ethics_1/Code-of-Ethics-for-
Nurses.html). A procedure is available to CNE® certificants and applicants for CNE® certification to resolve any
ethics charges and complaints. Any person, group, or, in appropriate cases, the NLN ANECP, may initiate an
ethics case and act as a complainant. A complainant other than the ANECP must: contact the Certification
Manager and request an Ethics Charge Statement form; complete the information requested on the Charge
Statement; and, submit the completed Charge Statement to the Certification Manager. Each Ethics Charge
Statement must include a detailed written description of the factual allegations supporting the ethics charge(s).

Individuals who are found to have violated ANECP policies may be subject to one or more of the following
disciplinary and remedial actions:
• Denial of application/reapplication
• Requirement to take corrective action(s)
• Private reprimand and censure
• Public reprimand and censure
• A term of certification probation
• Suspension of any NLN certification for six (6) months to two (2) years
• Revocation of any NLN certification

Authorized Use of CNE®™

Use of the CNE® credential is limited strictly to those individuals who are CNE® certificants in good standing.
Each CNE® certificant accepts and assumes sole responsibility for understanding and satisfying all applicable
organizational and legal requirements related to the use and/or display of the Certification Marks. Among other
requirements, each certificant is responsible for ensuring that the use of any Certification Mark in professional and
business related materials (e.g., stationery, signs, business cards, advertisements) is consistent with the policy of
the ANECP, and is not in conflict with applicable laws. NLN assumes no responsibility concerning the
interpretation or application of such legal requirements.
NLN shall not be liable or otherwise responsible for any claims, complaints, suits or damages whatsoever, relating
to the use of the Certification Marks, or in connection with the use of such marks.

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXAMINATION ACCOMMODATIONS

Please complete this form and the “Documentation of Disability-Related Needs” form that follows so the
accommodation for testing can be processed efficiently. The information provided and any documentation
regarding the candidate’s disability and need for accommodation in testing will be considered strictly confidential
and will not be shared with any outside source without the candidate’s express written consent. Candidates who
have existing documentation of the same or similar accommodation(s) provided for them in another examination
situation may submit such documentation instead of completing the “Professional Documentation” portion of this
form.

Applicant Information

Candidate ID number: _____________________________

Last Name: ______________________________________________
First Name: ______________________________________________ Middle Name: _____________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ____________________________________________________ State: ____ Zip Code: ___________________
Daytime Phone Number: __________________________________ Fax: _____________________________________
Email: ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________

Special Accommodations:
Please provide (check all that apply)
______ Special seating or other physical accommodations
______ Reader
______ Extended testing time (normally 1.5 additional hours)
______ Separate testing area
______ Other special accommodations (please specify)
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Comments:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Signed: _________________________________________________ Date: _______________________________

Return this form to:

NLN Customer Service
Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program
2408A Lebanon Avenue
Shiloh, IL 62221

Also, please contact the NLN’s Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program at (618) 534-0294 or
[email protected] to inform us that you have submitted an online registration form and are mailing in the
Request for Special Accommodations and Documentation of Disability-Related Needs forms.
Rev.8/11/16

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
DOCUMENTATION OF DISABILITY-RELATED NEEDS

Candidates who have a learning disability, a psychological disability, or other disability that requires an
accommodation in testing, please have this section completed by a professional having the appropriate
qualifications to assess the individual’s needs (e.g. education professional, physician, psychologist, psychiatrist).
The professional must certify that the candidate’s disabling condition requires the requested test accommodation.
Candidates who have existing documentation of the same or similar accommodation provided for them in another
examination situation may submit such documentation instead of completing the “Professional Documentation”
portion of this form.

Professional Documentation
I have known ___________________________________________________ since ______ / ______ / ______
Candidate’s name Date
in my capacity as a(n) ___________________________________________________ .
Professional Title

The applicant discussed with me the nature of the test to be administered. It is my opinion that because of this
applicant’s disability described below, he/she should be accommodated by providing the special arrangements
listed on the reverse side.

Description of Disability:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signed: __________________________________________Title: ____________________________________________

Printed Name: ______________________________________________________

Address:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number: _________________________________________________

Date: ___________________________License # (if applicable)____________________________________________

Return this form to:

NLN Customer Service
Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program
2408A Lebanon Avenue
Shiloh, IL 62221

Also, please contact the NLN’s Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program at (618) 534-0294 or
[email protected] to inform us that you have submitted an online registration form and are mailing in the
Request for Special Accommodations and Documentation of Disability-Related Needs forms.

Rev.8/11/16

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook
DUPLICATE CNE® EXAM SCORE REPORT REQUEST

Directions:
Candidate may use this form to request a duplicate copy of the score report from PSI/AMP. Please print or type all
information below and include correct fees, or the request will be returned.

Fee:
$25 per copy. Please enclose check or money order made payable in U.S. dollars to PSI/AMP. Do not send
cash. Write Candidate ID number on the face of the payment.

Amount enclosed: $ ____________________

Print candidate’s current name and address.

Name: _______________________________________________________
Candidate ID Number: _____________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________
City: _____________________________________________ State: _______ Zip/Postal Code: ________________
Telephone: ( ______ ) _______________________________ Fax: ( ______ ) ________________________________
Email: ________________________________________________________

Examination Date: ________________________ Examination Site: _________________________

I hereby request PSI/AMP send a duplicate of my score report to the address above.

__________________________________________________ ____________________
Candidate Signature Date

Return this form and enclosed payment to:

PSI/AMP
18000 W. 105th St.
Olathe, KS 66061-7543

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

WITHDRAWAL OF EXAMINATION REQUEST

Directions:
A candidate must use this form to request to withdraw their application to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator
examination. All withdrawal of examination requests must be received seven days prior to the end of the
eligibility period. A $100 processing fee will be incurred by the candidate. (Subject to change without prior
notification.)

Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Candidate ID Number: _____________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________
City: _____________________________________________ State: _______ Zip/Postal Code: ________________
Telephone: ( ______ ) _______________________________ Fax: ( ______ ) ________________________________
Email: ________________________________________________________

Please provide information for the credit card used for the original purchase:
Credit Card Number: ____________________________________________
Type: ____________________________________ Exp. Date: __________

I hereby request to withdraw my application for the Certified Nurse Educator examination. I have read and
understand the refund policy.

__________________________________________________ ____________________
Candidate Signature Date

Return this form to:

NLN Customer Service
Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program
2408A Lebanon Avenue
Shiloh, IL 62221
Fax: (202) 888-3104

If you have any questions, please contact us at: (618) 534-0294 or [email protected]

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 • CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

TESTING PERIOD ELIGIBILITY EXTENSION REQUEST

Directions:
A candidate must use this form to request an extension of eligibility for the registered examination dates.
All requests to extend eligibility for 90 days must be received by the deadline as indicated in the table
below.
A $100 processing fee will be incurred by the candidate. (Subject to change without prior notification.)

Eligibility Extension Request Eligibility Extension Request

Deadlines: Test Format Deadlines:
No Exam Date Scheduled If Exam date Scheduled
Four business days prior to the end Four business days prior to
Computer-based
of the eligibility period scheduled exam appointment

Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________

Candidate ID Number: _____________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________
City: _____________________________________________ State: _______ Zip/Postal Code: ________________
Telephone: ( ______ ) _______________________________ Fax: ( ______ ) ________________________________
Email: ________________________________________________________
Have you already scheduled your Exam appointment with PSI/AMP?
If so, please provide the date scheduled: ______________________________

**Please be aware that this form must be received by the ANECP office at
least four business days prior to your scheduled examination
appointment**

Please provide credit card information for $100 eligibility extension processing fee:
Credit Card Number: ____________________________________________
Type: ____________________________________ Exp. Date: __________
Name on credit card: _____________________________________________________

I hereby request to extend my eligibility date for an additional 90 days.

I understand the eligibility period can be extended only one time.

I have read and understand the refund policy.

__________________________________________________ ____________________
Candidate Signature Date
Return this form to:
NLN Customer Service
Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program
2408A Lebanon Avenue
Shiloh, IL 62221
Fax: (202) 888-3104
If you have any questions, please contact us at: (618) 534-0294 or [email protected]

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• CNE® 2018 Candidate Handbook

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