ISPQ FAQ
Why should my program or instructors want to get accredited or certified?
Providing an independent external review, the ISPQ designation offers training programs and instructors the opportunity to achieve accredited or certified status that provides evidence of quality assurance, quality improvement, and fiscal stability. The ISP mark is a signal to students, employers, government officials and funding sources that standards for the curriculum, student services, and trainers have been met. Training programs are better able to differentiate themselves in the market.
How was the standard developed?
The ISPQ International Standard 01021 is the only measurement available specifically to renewable energy training programs and instructors. The standard was developed in alignment with accepted international quality standards as set out by the International Organization for Standardization. The ISPQ standard specifies requirements that ensure that training bodies operate in a consistent, comparable, and reliable manner. Subject matter experts and industry stakeholders participated in the ISPQ development process.
Who are the auditors?
ISPQ Registered Auditors have five (5) or more years experience in a designated energy-related discipline. Candidates for the auditor position go through an extensive training session and are familiar with the ISPQ Accreditation/Certification Standard and content requirements laid out in relevant Task Analyses. Auditors sign a Code of Ethics including assurances that they will avoid any conflicts of interest, both real and perceived.
What is a Task Analysis?
The task (or job) analysis is a formal process for determining what people do, under what working conditions they do it, what they must know to do it, and the skills they must have to do it. Usually a technical committee of subject matter experts is convened to develop the task analysis. The task analysis helps establish the basis for training curricula and helps define requirements for the assessment and credentialing of practitioners.
What is the difference between accreditation and certification?
Accreditation is a recognition granted to a program or institution. It is voluntary. Certification is a recognition granted to an individual trainer. It is also voluntary, unlike a required government license.
