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Strategies for Passing AAAE Certification Exams

Aug 1, 2024

How to Pass the AAAE Certification Exams

Introduction

  • Presenter: Jeff Price
  • Co-author: Certified Member Materials for the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE)
  • Background: Full-time professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver, former airport director, commercial instrument-rated pilot, Coast Guard veteran
  • Programs Covered: Certified Member (CM) and Airport Certified Employee (ACE) programs

Key Points

Preparation over Hope

  • Hope: Not a plan, indicates lack of preparation
  • Preparation: Involves planning, positive mental attitude, and execution
  • Goal: To pass the exams and be better prepared in the industry

Identifying Test Questions

  • Example: Zero-based budgeting
    • No historical information
    • Items justified independently
    • Fresh perspective
    • Practically impossible to fully implement
  • Methods: Break down paragraphs to potential test questions and create flashcards
  • Context Paragraphs: Some paragraphs provide context and setup, not direct questions

Study Techniques

  1. Read the Modules: Read all provided materials thoroughly, even if not fully understood initially
  2. Have a Plan: Start reading early, create a study schedule, gather study materials
  3. Read with Intent: Understand as if you have to teach or brief the material
  4. Make Flashcards: Use for rote memorization, can be handwritten or digital
  5. Avoid Shortcuts: Do not rely solely on external resources like Quizlet; focus on official materials
  6. Use AI Tools: For different explanations but verify with official materials
  7. Study Groups: If helpful, otherwise, individual study might be better
  8. Teach to Learn: Explaining material to others helps retention
  9. Take the Class: If possible, take the official courses offered
  10. Study Daily: Frequent, short reviews, especially with flashcards
  11. Intermittent Study: Rotate study sections, revisit previous sections
  12. Think Like a Teacher: Create potential exam questions from the material
  13. Write Your Own Exam: Helps in identifying key areas
  14. Break Down Sections: Focus on small amounts at a time
  15. Accept Module Truth: Exam based on official materials, not personal or industry practices
  16. Use Official Study Materials: Always prioritize official guides and resources
  17. Hands-On Experience: Visit departments and get practical exposure
  18. Talk to Others: Gain insights from those who have taken the exam
  19. Check Documents: Review actual documents mentioned in modules
  20. Look for Natural Test Questions: Focus on qualifiers and quantifiers

Exam Day Tips

  • Read Questions Carefully: Understand the question fully before answering
  • Initial Answer: Usually correct, avoid changing it
  • Quick Study: Review flashcards on exam day
  • Setup: Complete practice exams to ensure technical readiness
  • Answer Known Questions: First, then revisit unsure ones
  • Ensure All Questions Answered: Verify before submitting

Post-Exam

  • If Fail, Try Again: Use performance report to focus on weak areas
  • Retake Date: Schedule immediately to stay motivated
  • Focus on Weak Areas: Study those before retaking

Conclusion

  • Most Important Tip: Read the modules thoroughly
  • Contact Information: Jeff Price's website and email for further questions
  • Final Note: Hope is not a plan; preparation, positive mental attitude, and execution are essential