Frequently Asked Questions

Program Questions

What is Distance Delivery?

The Orientation Course is available in an online format that allow participants to complete the Orientation Course without attending formal classes.

The Online course is delivered over the internet. All readings, exercises, videos and exams are delivered and administered through the internet.

Who is eligible to take the Orientation Course?

To take the Child Care Orientation Course, applicant MUST be at least 16 years of age and be a Canadian citizen, a Permanent Resident Card Holder or a Work/Student Visa holder, legally residing in Alberta.

Participants in the Online course must have access to a computer with internet access (high-speed access is preferred).

How long will it take to complete the online course?
This course will take approximately 54 hours to complete. Participants can expect to spend approximately 3 hours working on each Session. This time includes:
  • Reviewing learning materials online (including reading articles and watching videos) and completing learning activities online.
  • Participating in follow-up learning activities such as observing children in your child care centre.
  • Phoning your instructor to discuss your progress.

Sessions can be completed in multiple sittings. Participants can access the Online course and the exams 24 hours a day, 7 days week from any computer with internet access.

Is there any support available for learners?
Yes. Every participant will be provided feedback from their instructor on a regular basis as assignments are marked. Participants can also contact their instructor by phone or email.
How do participants register?
To take the online course, participants can signup on this website.

Program Process

What happens after I register?
  1. To take the online course, participants can signup on this website. You will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your e-mail address. Registration is not complete until you have verified your e-mail address.
  2. We will verify your residency status.
  3. Once all your information has been verified, you will receive an email indicating that you now have access to the course.
  4. Log in with your e-mail address and the password you created when you registered and begin the course by going to the Course Access tab.
  5. Once all exercises, assignments, and forum questions are marked as passed, the test will be available.
What happens after I complete and pass all 18 tests?

Your Letter of Completion will be available on the Completion Status page. Please follow the instructions on how to apply for certification. BaseCorp does not process certifications or transcripts. The certificate is issued by Alberta Children's Services, Child Care Staff Certification Office. Please check their website for more information at Child Care Staff Certification or contact the certification office at cs.staffcertification@gov.ab.ca or at 780.422.1119/ Toll Free: 1.800.661.9754 to follow up after you have sent in your certification. Please note: current certification application processing time is 10 to 12 weeks.

General Administration

How long do learners have to complete the program?
You have 180 days (25 weeks) to complete the course from the time you were granted access into the course.
Who should a participant notify regarding a change of address?
Participants can make the change online, or advise their instructor.

Fees

Is there a fee to take the Orientation Course?
No. The Orientation Course is fully funded by Alberta Children's Services.

Examination

Do the exams have to be proctored?
No. Exams are completed online. Learners are unable to access the course content once they have entered the exam environment.
Does the participant receive a passing score?
The assignments are marked as Pass or for Review. For Review assignments must be revised with reference to the instructor's comments and must be re-submitted for re-marking. Learners must contact the instructor at instructor@childcare.basecorp.com for any re-submitted assignments. All assignments/self-check exercises must be marked as Passed for test access. The tests are graded; 60% passing score. Learners will receive their results within a few moments of submitting an exam.
After failing an exam, can a learner re-write?
Yes. The leaner will need to contact the instructor to make arrangements. The learner will have a maximum of 3 attempts to pass each test. If they fail a test for the third time, the learner must wait seven days before another attempt will be granted. If the learner fails three session tests on the third attempt, they will have to wait one month before another attempt is granted. If the learner is unable to pass the test on the fourth attempt, they must contact the instructor to discuss a learning plan that will suit their needs and the course objectives.

The instructor can be contacted via:
Email: instructor@childcare.basecorp.com, or
Telephone: 1.877.486.2279
When participants re-write, do they get a different exam?
Yes.
How many items (questions) are on the exam?
Each exam has 10 questions.
What is the passing score?
Passing score is 60%

Web Based Delivery

When writing the exam, can a participant review their answers and make changes to their selections?
Yes, as long as they haven't already exited the program.
What should I do if I forgot my password?
You may retrieve your password by using the Forgot Your Password Form.
Is there a time limit in which the participant must complete the whole program before the password expires?
Yes; 180 days.
Is there a time limit on the exams?
Yes; 20 minutes.
Are transcripts of the videos available?
Yes, transcripts of the videos are available by request for hearing impaired learners. If you require a copy, call 780-486-5576 or toll free 1-877-486-2279.
Are there any specific computer software requirements needed to run the program online?
System Requirements
- Latest version of Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Chrome, or Safari
- Adobe Acrobat Reader, free download
- Headset or Speakers
- High speed internet is recommended