International IT Certifications in Secondary Schools in New Zealand

The author has implemented a formal IT Certification track with private high school students, and assessed how this prepares students for tertiary study and the future job market. A summary of the case study findings is presented to show how students’ motivation to study technology and feelings of competence and adequacy are enhanced through these studies. An early assessment of the “value” of such certifications are also presented, along with recommendations for development of micro credentials and RPL processes in tertiary education programmes to cater for students with adequate IT certification successes. Reference is made to the American Council for Educators’ National Guide and the NZQA’s micro credential programme with recommendations to IT Certificate providers, tertiary institutes and NZQA.