The Japan Wildlife Research Center, an organization dedicated to promoting coexistence between human society and nature through scientific and policy-related research, has been administering the Taxonomic Proficiency Test once a year (twice a year for Level 4), since 1999. The exam is targeted at individuals interested in wildlife and its aim is to foster the proper knowledge of taxonomic classification.

Children and professionals alike can try out their skills, as the multiple testing levels accommodate four levels of examinees. Levels 3 and 4 are entry levels, targeting people who are simply interested in wildlife, whereas the more advanced Level 2 is for experts involved in biological research. Level 1, the most challenging, is aimed at certifying professionals. Tests for Levels 2, 3 and 4 are performed with a combination of answer sheets and written responses, while essays and oral tests are used for Level 1.

Many examinees who have passed the test and qualified for the certificate are presently involved in environmental research. Certificates for Level 1 and 2 are often used as criteria to evaluate researchers in environmental assessment companies or freelance wildlife researchers.

By nurturing the talent of biological specialists relating to wildlife surveys, the organization hopes to contribute to the improvement in accuracy of environmental research.




Posted: 2003/12/24 11:16:41 AM
Japanese version

TAG Ecosystem , NGO/Citizen , System/Law , University/Research institute