In this session we aim to explore how the structure and delivery of exams can either reinforce or reduce systemic barriers for women - particularly those balancing caregiving responsibilities (a disproportionate amount of caregivers to children and elder family members are women) or navigating life events such as pregnancy and perimenopause.
Your speakers will use research to deliver a session that delves into the measurable impact that caregiving responsibilities can have on women’s access to upskilling and career progression.
A second speaker from the testing industry will talk more specifically about the impact of the training and examination experience, and how we as an industry can look at the systems and processes in place for high stakes exams that can be considered when making accommodations.
Finally, we will look at the
Together, we’ll consider how certification and licensure programs can take practical steps to be part of the solution. We’ll examine the often-invisible friction points in exam policy, format, and scheduling that disproportionately affect women, and outline a set of actionable strategies to improve access, equity, and mobility. From flexible exam windows and accommodations processes to inclusive exam design, this session will equip leaders with realistic, high-impact ways to advance gender equity through testing.
Although the primary narrative throughout this presentation is focused on biological cis-gender women in the workplace, the advice can be applied to anyone who is in a similar position of discrimination or sub-conscious bias, and we will encourage questions and discussion that aim to improve the testing and workplace experience for everybody.