Issei Abe Associate Professor Certifications Earned Internet and Computing Core Certification   Employer Kyoto Koka Women's University Location Kyoto, Japan

In his own words: "IC3 is recognized worldwide as an objective standard to be achieved to prove one's information literacy."

Japanese University Includes IC³ in Curriculum to Standardize Digital Literacy and Inspire Student Development
Students prepare for future employment by certifying current and relevant computing skills

Last year, Kyoto Koka Women's University in Kyoto, Japan, realigned its Media Information curriculum to match the requirements of Certiport Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC³®), a globally recognized standard for digital literacy that validates the fundamental computer and Internet skills and knowledge required to be successful in school, work and life. With this curriculum update, the university now offers its students a worldwide standard that develops digital literacy, helps students set learning goals and increases confidence in their ability to participate effectively in the digital community.

BACKGROUND
Established in 1940, Kyoto Koka Women's University offers a variety of courses focusing on information education and vocational guidance. Its Media Information program, which has an enrollment of approximately 70 first and second-year students, offers a wide range of curriculum to match the social needs of students who may someday find employment in industry.

Searching for a unified standard for digital literacy, Kyoto Koka Women's University recently updated the Media Information curriculum to match IC³.

"In today's information-oriented society, information literacy is required of all students," explained associate professor Issei Abe. "Fundamental knowledge of information equipment is vital, so we looked for an appropriate standard to match our expectations."

Abe said other Japanese universities use certification programs to evaluate information literacy, but Kyoto Koka Women's University found IC³ was the only program that included the well-balanced skill set required in actual office environments. In addition, Abe said IC³'s three components-Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online-make it a valid evaluation of computing knowledge and skills. IC³'s worldwide recognition made it even more attractive to the university.

"IC³ is recognized worldwide as an objective standard to be achieved to prove one's information literacy," he said.

PROCESS
One year ago, Kyoto Koka Women's University aligned its Media Information curriculum with the exam objectives and skill standards required of the Computing Fundamentals and Living Online IC³ components. Students study "Computing Fundamentals" for one semester, followed by "Network Fundamentals" in a second semester. Finally, students take a one-year "Information Processing" course to learn Microsoft® Word and Excel and prepare for the IC³ Key Applications exam. Upon conclusion of all three courses, students are prepared to take and pass IC³ exams.

All IC³ exam fees are paid by students interested in pursuing the certification. Kyoto Koka University has been a Certiport Center, an authorized testing center, for two years.

CERTIFICATION
In the last year, seven Kyoto Koka Women's University students participating in the Media Information program earned IC³ certification. Although the certification is not required for course completion or graduation from the university, 20 students passed at least one IC³ exam.

RESULT
Kyoto Koka Women's University students appreciate the opportunity they now have to earn IC³ certification. Abe reported that many students are pleased with the program and the opportunity it gives them to set and achieve their computing goals.

"We have received many positive comments about how easy it is to prepare for IC³ because its content is very standardized," Abe said. "Our students are trying very hard to pass the exams. IC³ is important to them, as is the opportunity to learn more about computers. I believe we have been successful in providing our students a very useful credential and skill set they can use right after graduation."

Abe said that by offering IC³ as part of the Media Information curriculum, Kyoto Koka Women's University has enhanced the overall digital literacy level of students at the university and has developed the credibility of the Media Information courses. Further, students in the program are now more interested in computer and networking technology and have increased confidence, which may result in pursuit of additional certifications.

To learn more about Certiport and the IC³certification, visit www.certiport.com or call Certiport Customer Services and Support at 1-888-999-9830.