At Andela, we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of quality and integrity across all of our available skills tests. This article clarifies our updated badge review process, the reasons for badge removal, and how you can ensure compliance and successfully re-earn your badge.
Why badges are reviewed and removed
Our commitment to quality requires periodic reviews of badge-granting practices within the network. This ensures that each badge reflects true technical proficiency and adherence to our integrity guidelines. If a badge is found to be inconsistent with these standards, it may be subject to removal.
Key reasons for badge removal include:
- Badge retirement (most common): A badge was flagged as outdated and removed from the list of client presented skills.
- Blocked proctoring images: Images that were obstructed, either physically or through the use of software, during the assessment.
- External assistance: Indications of help from AI-generated code, pre-leaked solutions, or in-person aid.
- Plagiarism: Any detected copying or reuse of other individuals’ work without proper attribution.
- Ineffective solutions: Submitted answers that did not adequately address or solve the challenge problem.
These measures are crucial for upholding the credibility of our network of technologists and ensuring that clients have confidence in the skills and expertise of our community members.
Next steps after badge removal
If you have been notified that one or more of your badges have been removed, we understand this may be disappointing. However, you are encouraged to take steps to regain your badge:
- Review and reflect: Take time to understand the reason for the removal and identify areas for improvement.
- Prepare for reassessment: You can retake the assessment after 30 days. Use this period to strengthen your skills and review best practices for a successful submission.
- Study our guidelines: While this resource, Avoiding Disqualification: Guidelines for Applicants, is written for Andela applicants, this guide also offers practical tips for certified talent on how to avoid disqualification and submit high qualify work for any Andela Qualify badge.
How to ensure compliance and successful badge reacquisition
To maintain or regain your badge successfully, keep these tips in mind:
- Follow proctoring protocols: Ensure your assessment environment is well-prepared to avoid any obstructions in proctoring images.
- Complete the test independently: Avoid seeking external help during the assessment. Your submissions should be solely your own work.
- Adhere to integrity standards: Make sure your solutions are original and appropriately solve the given challenge.
- Review and practice: Regularly practice problem-solving to refine your technical abilities and submit well-thought-out solutions.
We’re here to support you as you work toward re-earning your badge! Your commitment to excellence reinforces the integrity of our community and the trust placed in us by clients and peers. If you have any questions or need guidance, please contact our support team—thank you for being an essential part of the Andela community, and we look forward to supporting your continued growth and career progression!