Integrating program evaluation and a new certification for information technology professionals

The Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) and the Center for Computing Education Research (CCER) have formed a coalition of 40 universities and colleges to develop an outcome assessment examination reflecting the objectives and learning units espoused in the IS 2002 Model Curriculum. An early version of this examination was beta tested in 2003 by over 500 students. A subsequent revised version has been beta tested in 2004 by over 800 students enrolled in IT related programs at the coalition schools.

The assessment examination serves as a common instrument for integrating two related goals: (1) The CCER was formed to provide the assessment examination and related institutional feedback on programmatic preparation of graduates consistent with the IS 2002 Model Curriculum. (2) The ICCP created a new vendor-neutral professional certification titled "Information Systems Analyst" (ISA) based on successful assessment examination performance and completion of an IT related undergraduate degree for the purpose of credentialing entry level professionals based on their knowledge of information technology concepts and skills commonly taught in IT related programs. This paper describes these developments and explains how institutions may participate in the programmatic evaluation and individual credentialing programs.