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For Immediate Release
IC³ sets a global standard in computer literacy for the first time
New global computer literacy standard is rolled out to Europe, the Middle East and Africa
LONDON (June 11, 2002) - Certiport Inc., the leading provider of global,
performance-based certification programs and services, today rolls out its ground-breaking
Internet and Computing Core Certification program (IC³) to Europe, the
Middle East and Africa. It is the first globally recognised and professionally
validated standard of computer competence.
Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC³) is a standard which proves
that the holder has the basic computing and Internet knowledge and skills to
thrive in today’s computer-dominated world. It is not tied to any software publisher,
and provides a basis for further advancement and confidence with computers.
For most students it will be their first computing qualification. It tests a student’s competence in basic information and communications technology including word processing and spreadsheets, use of the Internet and its implications, loading software, and the student’s understanding of hardware, software and computer networks.
David Saedi, executive vice president for IC³; creators Certiport, said:
"We have worked with academics, employers and teachers from around the
world to agree which skills and knowledge are needed for basic competence with
information and communications technology. The results led us to the IC³ program
that we are introducing today.
"It allows those who already have computing skills to demonstrate their abilities to employers, colleges and others.
"It also acts as a target for those learning ICT skills, and will help them to improve their productivity in workplace situations."
Emmett Hedigan, chief executive of Ireland and UK-based computer training provider Unlimited, said: "IC³ will be adopted rapidly because it is standardized, globally validated and appeals to a much larger audience than other available IT certification or assessments like the European Computer Driving Licence."
A global association representing more than 8,000 computing and communications companies, CompTIA helps its members stay competitive and profitable by providing common standards in certification, e-commerce, customer service and workforce development to meet these industry-wide challenges. Lutz Ziob, vice president of certifications for CompTIA, said: “CompTIA welcomes the addition of IC³ as a fundamental certification program demonstrating computer literacy. We recognise the value that this certification brings in introducing individuals to a career in IT and its potential as a precursor to other certification programs."
The qualification is an excellent foundation level, and will pave the way for students to undertake more advanced training and testing. Students can learn the skills they need to pass IC³ through CD-rom or home study manuals, or through classroom teaching by qualified tutors.
IC³ is split into three modules - computing fundamentals, key applications, and living online. Currently available in English and Dutch, IC³ will soon be available in other European languages including German, Spanish, Italian, Norwegian and Greek.
IC³ has been created by US-based Certiport, which specialises in performance-based examinations for validating IS literacy and proficiency, and will be distributed in the UK by CCS Limited of Radlett, Hertfordshire (tel 00 44 1923 859498).
About Certiport
Certiport, Inc. is the leading provider of global, performance-based certification programs and services designed to enable individual success and lifetime advancement through certification. For more information about Certiport’s offerings, visit http://www.certiport.com.
Note: Certiport is a registered trademark of Certiport, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
Issued by:
Brendan McGrath
Aura Public Relations tel 01636 636398
email brendan.aurapr@eclipse.co.uk
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