Certification Update:
Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Careers
Trish Bobst
National Sales Consultant
www.cengage.com/focus
The State of Technology…
...is dramatically evolving at a
very rapid pace…
Technology Trends
•
In 2005, there were 670 million PC users
worldwide
• 2010: estimated 1.2 billion
• 90% use Microsoft Windows
• 96.5% use Microsoft Office
Technology Trends
Job Market Demands
Preparing Your Students
to shoulder the load
Job Market Tech Demands…
What Are We Hearing?
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Technology is moving to lower grades
Emphasis is on complementing the core
curriculum
Need to emphasize math and reading
skills to pass state tests
Keyboarding expectations vs. indicators
Keyboarding Technology Solutions
Middle School Solutions
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Cross-curricular emphasis
• Input technologies
• End-of-chapter activities
– Academic
– Business
– Career
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Century 21 Jr. 2E: Input Technologies &
Computer Applications
Hoggatt/Shank/Barksdale ©2010
Grades 6–8
Microsoft Office
2007/2010
• All-in-one software
Middle School Solutions
Spotlight On… Series
• Technology exploration
• Engaging cross-curricular activities
• “Buddy Projects” reinforce cooperation
• “Guided Practice” encourages learning at
home
High School Emphasis
Microsoft Office 2010
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Microsoft Office applications
• Advanced functions
• Spreadsheet Applications
• Presentations—digital and oral
• Integrated Applications
Correct document formatting
Digital communication skills
Communication skills emphasizing reading and
writing
Real-world projects and activities
Academic connections
Concepts ARE Important!
What Technology Skills Should
You Be Teaching Your Students?
REQUIRED
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

Windows
File Management
Email, Outlook
Web Research
Word Processing
Spreadsheets
PowerPoint
HIGHLY DESIRED
e
 Databases
 Graphics (Adobe
Illustrator)
 Digital Photo Editing
(Photoshop)
 HTML/Dreamweaver
 Macromedia Flash
Why Certify?
Certification Roadmap
Proof of Knowledge…
Internet and Computing
Core Certification
First global certification for computer literacy
What is IC3
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Relatively new, fast growing certification
Internet and Computing Core Certification
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Standards recently revised to address Office 2007
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Appropriate for your office & concepts courses
•
Middle School, High School, Career College, and
2-year schools
Recognition and
Industry Support for IC3
Why is it growing in acceptance?
IC3 levels the playing field!
What You Can Expect
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Format of exams remains the same.
Mixing and matching of exams allowed.
Tougher exams.
50% linear and 50% performance-based questions.
Office 2007, Internet Explorer 7.0, and Windows Vista.
Up to date with current technologies
Exams delivered on LMS.
New Office 2010/Win 7 exam objectives estimated
summer 2011?
Computing Fundamentals
Think “Computer Concepts”
•
Computer Hardware,
Peripherals &
Troubleshooting
• Computer Software
• Using an Operating System
Key Applications
Think “Office Applications”
•
Common Program Functions
• Word Processing Functions
• Spreadsheet Functions
• Communication & Presentation Software
Living Online
Think “Internet Literacy”
• Using the Internet and the
World Wide Web
• The Impact of Computing
& the Internet on Society,
including social
networking
• Communications Networks
& the Internet
• Electronic Communications
& Collaboration
Measuring Knowledge:
Linear Test Items
Measuring Skills:
Performance-Based Test Items
Benefits to students
and test candidates
Relevant
Validates
Demonstrates
Proficiency
Distinguishes
Career path
Benefits to institutions
and instructors
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In-depth research
Highest standards and best practices
Features the latest testing technology
Successful completion of NCLB requirements
Recognized global standard in digital literacy
Cost effective and time efficient
A professional development tool
Computer Literacy Solutions
Our IC3 Offerings
Two IC3 certified products
• Two distinct approaches
• Only publisher with
multiple offerings!
•
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Some schools will
purchase because of
“literacy” approach, not
because of IC3 certification
Practical Computer Literacy 2nd Edition:
Internet and Computing Core Certification
Computer Literacy Basics 3rd Edition:
A Comprehensive Guide To IC3
Test Prep Solutions
•
Study Guide Companion to
Practical Computer Literacy
– IC3 exam question topics and
exam format
– IC3 objectives covered in the quiz
with page references in the
Practical Computer Literacy 2nd
edition book
IC3 Resources
Microsoft Office
Certification
A huge need and opportunity
•
Over 250 million Microsoft Office users
across the globe
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95% of all businesses standardize on
Microsoft Office
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The average user only understands 20% of
the functionality available in the Office suite
Put Microsoft On Their Résume
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Wages
– MOS/MCAS certified individuals are earning 12%
more than non-certified individuals
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Placement
– Certified individuals are placed at a higher rate
than the industry average
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Conversion
– Certified individuals are converting to full-time
employment 50% more often than non-certified
individuals
Robert Half International findings
MOS Exams
http://www.certiport.com
Become a Certiport Center
•
Test students on your campus
– Comfortable environment
– Reduced exam cost to students
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Distinguishes your programs from the rest
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No cost to become a testing center
– Pay only for exams administered
– Course Technology Certification Solutions
– http://www.certiport.com/go
Office Series at-a-Glance
Fundamentals
• First-time
learners
• Introductory yet
covers
comprehensive
topics
Pasewark
Illustrated
Shelly Cashman
• Self-paced
• Nuts and bolts
• Skills-based
approach
• Variety of
Learners
• Step-by-step,
projects-based
approach
• Step-by-step
exercises
• Large, colorful
screen shots
• Screenshot for
each step
• Variety of
Learners
• Unique twopage spreads
• Many end-ofchapter projects
• Renowned
author team
New
Perspectives
• Business, casebased approach
• Critical thinking,
problem solving
activities
Test Prep Solutions
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SAM 2007/2010 Assessment & Training
– Since 1998, SAM (Skills Assessment Manager)
has been the #1 testing and training tool for
Microsoft Office.
• Performance-based Assessment
• Interactive Training
• Live-in-the-application, auto-graded Projects
– SAM now includes coverage of IC3 objectives and
practice exams
– Web deliverable
• Internet Explorer and Flash Player required
SAM 2010
Assessment, Training & Projects
Get up to speed quickly with our
“Guided Tour…” CDs
To Learn More about Cengage Learning’s
Office 2010 and Windows 7 Solutions, Visit:
www.cengage.com/ct/office2010
Partners in Certification
Long-time partners and authorized provider of exam
vouchers (electronic and paper) and the new exam
site-licensing for IC3, MOS, ACA.
Office 2010
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Free online
– Web – W, E, PP, and OneNote
– Home & Insert Tabs only
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Through cell phone
Real time collaboration
32-bit version – education; 64-bit version – business
Client version – full installed
All applications have ribbons (W, E, A, PP, One
Note, and Publisher)
www.live.com
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Free windows log in
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Approx 70% functional in October 2009
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25G of free storage
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Sky Drive/Cloud Computing
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95% of HS students have connectivity at home
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Word is on 85% of all computers
Adobe Certification
Growing Demand for Digital Media Skills
“Over the past five years, the average growth of
users in what was considered specialized digital
tasks is greater than more mainstream tasks.
Specifically, animation, video, and audio are the
fastest growing areas with more than 35% growth
over the last five years.”
Put Talents On Display
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Give Your Students’ Creative Juices a Shot of
Credibility
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Boost Confidence with Up-to-Date Skills
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Certification Helps Prove Proficiency
Digital Media Certification
In A Competitive Work World
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A need for proficient users for successful
business outcomes.
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World-wide growth in digital
communications skills.
Adobe Certified Associate
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Web Communications with Dreamweaver CS5
Rich Communications with Flash CS5
Visual Communications with Photoshop CS5
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The certification launched in May 2009
CS5 Site Licenses
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Adobe CS5 Web Standard
• Adobe CS5 Web Premium
• Adobe CS5 Design Standard
• Adobe CS5 Design Premium
• Adobe CS5 Production Premium
• Adobe CS5 Master Collection
Revealed Series - Adobe CS5
Other CS5 Solutions…
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The Exploration Series
– InDesign
– Photoshop
– Illustrator
– Flash
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• Illustrated Series
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InDesign
Dreamweaver
Photoshop
Flash
Shelly Cashman Series • New Perspective Series
– Dreamweaver
– Photoshop
– Dreamweaver
– Flash
The Design Exploration Series
Design driven, client-project based software learning.
Exploring Adobe InDesign CS5
Exploring Adobe Photoshop CS5
Exploring Adobe Illustrator CS5
Exploring Adobe Flash CS5
A+ Certification
Exam Overview
CompTIA Strata = Foundational IT Credential for
Tier-1 Helpdesk Staff
Students Pursuing IT Pathways
Technically Demanding Careers
• Medical Office Support
• Office Administration
• Communication Technology Professions
Appropriate Courses for Certification
Intro to Computer Repairs
Intro to Information Technology
Technology Preview Courses
Exam Objectives
CompTIA Strata Exam
Characteristics
This is what to expect Multiple-choice and other linear questions
60 minute length
70 test items
Score required to pass = 70%
Skills measured are posted on CompTIA
website
2006 A+ Exams
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2006 Exams: four A+ exams
– 220-610 – Essentials
– 220-602 – IT Technician
– 220-603 – Remote Support Technician
– 220-604 – Depot Technician
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All candidates must pass:
– Essentials exam + one other exam to
become A+ certified.
Changes from 2006 to 2009
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2009 A+ Exams
– A+ 220-701 - Essentials
– A+ 220-702 - Practical Application
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Return to the two-exam format
• Must pass both exams to become A+ Certified
• 3rd and 4th exams from 2006 (603 & 604)
eliminated due to low demand
A+ Textbooks from Jean Andrews
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A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your
PC, Comprehensive, 7th Edition
• 1435497783
•
A+ Guide to Hardware: Managing, Maintaining
and Troubleshooting, 5th Edition
• 1435487389
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A+ Guide to Software: Managing, Maintaining,
and Troubleshooting, 5th Edition
• 1435487370
A+ 2009 Total Solution
Digital Components:
• Instructor Resources
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Lab Manual
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One for each text
dtiMetrics (assessment)
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One for each text
Web-Based Labs
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CD and Online
One for each text
eBooks
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CourseSmart and ichapters
CL eBook – more robust
K12 eBook !!
Print Components:
• PC Troubleshooting Pocket Guide
• Fixing Windows Vista
• Computer Technology Encyclopedia
• CompTIA A+ PC Repair Flashcards
• CourseNotes
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One for each exam
CompTIA A+ 2009 Q&A
Other Resources and Tools:
• 22-Piece Toolset with ESD (safety)
strap
• Digital Multimeter
• Cable Tester
• Certification Nylon Bag
Digital Literacy Solutions
Cengage Learning…a total solutions provider
Succeeding in the Workplace
What does it take?
What Industry Says…
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Technical skill ALONE does not make someone
competitive in the job market
– In fact, computer literacy skills are assumed!
•
Today’s workers demonstrate GAPS in:
– Communication skills
– Team/interpersonal skills
– Problem solving
– Quantitative reasoning
– Business process knowledge
– Project management
What Employers Say…
Attributes Most Desirable in New Employees…
 Ability
 Oral
to work productively on a diverse team
& written communication skill
 Ability
to think critically and analytically
 Resourcefulness
in solving problems
 Ability
to locate, organize & evaluate information from multiple
sources
 Creativity
& innovative spirit
 Ability
to understand and communicate quantitatively
 Sense
of integrity and ethics
 Understanding
of global cultures and values
What Industry and Employers are saying
Reproducible Binder…
•Written Communication
•Verbal Communication
•Problem Solving and Decision
Making
•Teamwork
•Professionalism
Includes 30-pack student access
codes (additional codes can be
purchased, as needed)
Written Communications
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Written Communication
– Email and Memos
– Secrets of Clear Writing
– Developing Reports and Proposals
– Writing For Employment
– Writing Professional Letters
Verbal Communications
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Verbal Communication
– Basics of Communication
– Working With Customers
– Developing Professional Telephone Skills
– Improving Informal Communication
– Making Formal Presentations
Problem Solving/Decision Making
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Problem Solving and Decision Making
– Identifying and Defining the Problem
– Solving the Problem
– Thinking Critically
– Group Decision Making and Problem Solving
– Decision and Support Tools
Team Work/Team Building
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Team Work and Team Building
– Working in Groups and Teams
– Team Roles and Processes
– Team Building and Development
– Being a Team Leader
– Having Successful Meetings
Professionalism
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Professionalism
– Presenting Yourself Professionally
– Developing a Professional Work Ethic
– Developing Your Interpersonal Skills
– Understanding Office Protocols and Politics
– Planning and Managing Your Career
Learning
Online Companion
Games
Be the Critic
•
Corresponding to the
end of unit exercises,
“Be The Critic”
requires a student to
review a report,
document, etc. and
assess it’s strengths
and weaknesses
through objectivebased questions.
Be the Critic - Graded
Critical Thinking Questions
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Pulled from the end of unit materials, Critical
Thinking Questions contain 5 questions which
students will answer an their instructor will grade
using a grading rubric.
Critical Thinking – Instructor View
Putting Your Soft Skills to Work
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The goal of this activity is to have students
upload a document (a resume for instance or in
this case an email to a manager) for peer review
and critique.
Interface
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The student will read the assignment, build the
document/assignment and upload it where it will
be visible (on the right side of this image) for all
students and instructors to critique via ratings and
rubrics.
Soft Skills Survivor - Graded
A movie will play in the left panel, pausing at set points in a scenario.
Students will be prompted with a question based on the presented scenario.
If they get the question wrong, they are prompted to watch the video clip
again and they cannot move onto the next video segment until the get the
question correct.
ExamView - Test Generator
16 Career Clusters
16 Career Clusters:
A Project-Based Orientation
A strategic planning guide
for career success
www.coursecasts.course.com
For other live or recorded webinars and training sessions,
visit our TeamUP Training & Services website!
www.cengage.com/school
www.cengage.com/school/teamup/
In Conclusion…
• Emphasis
to have
“proof” of
skills
• Stay one step
ahead of the
students; keep up
to date with
technology
• Proficiency in
IT skills is
critical to
success for
students in
academic and
work
environments
Certification Update:
Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Careers
Trish Bobst
trish.bobst@cengage.com
www.cengage.com/focus