Jurisprudence Knowledge & Assessment Tool

The Jurisprudence Knowledge and Assessment Tool (JKAT) is an online knowledge and assessment resource designed to strengthen a Registered Dietitian’s (RD’s) understanding and application of laws, standards, guidelines and ethical requirements relevant to the profession of dietetics in Ontario.

The JKAT uses practical scenarios and multiple-choice questions to assess how dietitians apply jurisprudence knowledge to practical situations. References are provided online within the assessment.

Completion of the JKAT is a mandatory under the College’s Quality Assurance Regulation, which requires that: “Every registrants shall engage in professional improvement and development in accordance with the guidelines and policies established by the College and distributed to the registrants.”

All new registrants are required to complete the JKAT, typically within the first year of membership and every five years thereafter.

Out of Province Exception

Dietitians who reside outside Ontario and do not work with clients from Ontario may request an exemption from completing the JKAT.

If a registrant returns to Ontario, they must notify the College within 10 working days of their return, and complete the JKAT within that year.

Request for an Extension

A registrant who requires additional time to complete the JKAT must submit a written request that includes:

1. The registrant’s full name and registration number.
2. A clear request for the extension. 
3. Current employment, practice or work status.
4. Relevant information or supporting reasons to assist the Committee in making its decision (information may be specific or general in nature). 

Request for Deferral

In exceptional circumstances, a registrant who is unable to complete the JKAT may request a deferral. Requests must be submitted in writing with supporting information.

Registrants are permitted three (3) attempts to achieve the required passing score.

If a registrant does not achieve a passing cut score after the third attempt, they will be to undertake additional jurisprudence learning before retaking the incorrect questions.

If the Registrant continues to be unsuccessful, the Quality Assurance Committee may take further action, which may include:

• Requiring completion of a jurisprudence course or workshop.
• Requiring the registrant to work with a mentor who has successfully completed the JKAT.
• Requiring the registrant to consult with the College’s Practice Advisors or Director of Professional Practice.

Appeal of JKAT Results 

A registrant may appeal their JKAT results after their third unsuccessful attempt. Written appeals must include:

1. Full name and registration number 
2. Reason for appeal 
3. Current employment, practice or work status 
4. Any relevant supporting documentation (e.g., medical documatation or other pertinent information). 

The Quality Assurance Committee reviews appeals on a case-by-case basis, considering both the submitted documentation and the JKAT results.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

A registrant who is required to complete the JKAT and fails to do so; without contacting the College with an explanation; may be considered to have committed an act of professional misconduct and may be referred to the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC). 

The JKAT: A Validated Test

The College has followed established assessment development standards and best practices in creating the JKAT to ensure it is fair, valid, and reliable.