definition
strict definition
recognition type
The broad class of a recognition, distinguished by its format and general theme rather than one particular bestowal.
The recognition type is a generalized classification for any listed recognition. It is based on the format of the recognition as well as its broad theme, and is used to group similar recognitions together.
The type describes the kind of recognition rather than the date or score of a particular recipient. Similar honors can share a type even when their bestowers differ.
An award primarily confers honor or praise, while a certificate primarily acknowledges or documents a quality or achievement.