Introductory IT at a tertiary level - is ICDL the answer?

Abstract

Research is underway at the University of Port Elizabeth (UPE) to establish a framework for introductory IT courses to match the needs of future graduates of diverse programmes from the Faculties of Arts, Building Sciences, Economic Sciences, Education, Health and Science. This research includes a survey of what skills are being taught at tertiary institutions in Southern Africa, a questionnaire and interview survey with the academics involved in the various programmes at UPE, and a survey of what the graduates of UPE consider necessary in their chosen careers. The International Computer Driver's Licence (ICDL) programme is an internationally recognised qualification in introductory IT. This paper investigates the correlation between the outcomes of ICDL and the requirements of the above stakeholders. Conclusions are drawn as to the merits of adopting ICDL as an accepted curriculum for compulsory introductory IT education at a tertiary institution.