Education
Children today are exposed to computers in preschools as early as two years old. New electronic learning aids help students become very comfortable with the new technology. More elementary and secondary schools are offering computer courses--not only computer literacy courses, but also programming and word processing at the high school level. The first programming course is often a good determinant of whether an individual has an aptitude and a strong enough interest to pursue an information processing career. Often performance in a programming course is a better indicator of aptitude and interest than a data processing aptitude test. The sooner the exposure to computers, the better it is. Since knowing how to use a computer is valuable in any career, every student who can afford a computer should buy one--the sooner, the better. There are many manufacturer-sponsored discount programs, often accompanied by free introductory courses in how to use them. Early exposure to computers is helpful, but success in educational programs in computer and information fields depends on strong basic skills in language and math.
Vocational and technical schools offer a variety of programs for those interested in data entry, operations, maintenance, service, electronics, programming, and so on. Usually, specialized data processing schools offer programs in these areas as well. At the community college, one-year or two-year programs in data entry, programming, or computer operations are usually offered. Often credits can be transferred to a college offering four-year degree programs. Employers may pay for the additional education.
Information majors are usually able to find internships or cooperative education (co-op) positions. Traditional internships were three-month summer positions, while co-op programs were six months or longer. Internships usually were arranged by an interested faculty member and a company manager, and the intern was not always paid. Co-ops, on the other hand, were part of an ongoing college program for which students received both credits and pay. These distinctions aren't as clear any more, since companies want interns for longer periods as well and pay frequently is offered. Students earn wages and gain invaluable experience.
Many organizations later hire their brightest interns and co-op students for full-time jobs. Apart from these programs, many students with computer skills find part-time jobs on their own that offer both pay and experience.
Training
Training is the most important ingredient in the success formula for computer professionals. It is the lack of good training and development opportunities that causes individuals to become dead-ended early in their careers. The first question that a job applicant should ask is, "What kind of training and development will the company provide me if I accept this position?"
The recent emphasis on training is due in part to the failure of college curricula in computer and information sciences to educate graduates in the high-demand skill areas. Dramatic changes in technology and organizational structure require constant educational program evaluation and modification. Curriculum change occurs too slowly.
Major computer vendors such as IBM and Compaq organize seminars and institutional training facilities for all technical levels in addition to the companies specializing in training services. Training opportunities are also available to members through their professional organizations.
Certification
The Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals (ICCP) is a nonprofit organization that tests and certifies computer programmers and data processing managers. The certification process is a coordinated industry-wide effort to promote higher standards of performance. Currently, there are two major certification programs: the Certified Computer Professional (CCP), a professional-level title, and the Associate Computer Professional (ACP), an entry-level one. To receive either the CCP or the ACP, one must pass the examinations and accept the ICCP codes of ethics, conduct, and good practice. Professionals must be recertified every three years. For specific information concerning certification, write to Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals Des Plaines, IL 60018
This certification procedure has been in existence for decades, but not without some controversy. The ICCP certification has been criticized for emphasizing broad, general knowledge rather than specific emerging technologies.
Novell Inc. has offered technical training, testing, and certification for the designation of Certified NetWare Administrator, Certified NetWare Engineer (CNE), or Enterprise CNE. To obtain a CNE certificate, one must attend a two-day seminar and pass a series of exams. Some organizations require candidates for LAN manager positions to have a CNE certificate. Other vendors have begun to offer certification programs as well.
Leading individuals in information careers and professional associations desire to establish the professionalism in their field as has been done in other professions such as law, medicine, and accounting. They are willing to spend time and energy to develop standards of performance and good practice. Some professional groups concerned with standardizing software development processes and certifying professionals are the Canadian Standards Association, the American National Standards Institute, and the Technical Committee on Software Engineering of the IEEE Computer Society. These groups have set widespread standards for the information industry. The Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) and the International Programmers Guild certify qualified professionals who adhere to the set standards.
