IC3 ( /ˌaɪˌsiːˈθriː/) is the abbreviation and registered trademark of the "Internet and Computing Core Certification." The IC3 is a global certification program that is designed to certify an individual's digital literacy skills associated with basic computer and Internet use. IC3 is the first computer certification to be recognized by the National Skill Standards Board (NSSB).
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Certiport was established in 1997. They are based in American Fork, Utah and their main goal is to validate fundamental computer skills and knowledge through performance-based testing. In addition to the IC3 credential, Certiport also provides the official Microsoft Office certification programs, the Microsoft Technology Associate certification program, the Adobe® Certified Associate certification program, the Autodesk Certified User program, the CompTIA Strata™ IT Fundamentals, the Intuit QuickBooks Certified User certification program.[1]
IC3 was created by Certiport, Inc. in 2000 to address the need for a globally recognized and accepted standard of basic computing knowledge to be considered fundamental to academic learning and a minimum requirement for employment in a typical office setting.
The IC³ certification is awarded to those individuals that take and are able to pass three separate exams, titled Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications, and Living Online.[2] Schools across America have integrated IC3 into their vo-tech programs and high schools tech education, providing students to become IC3 certified upon completion of three exams. Mississippi, in particular, has included Information and Communication Technology I & II into their coursework with the certification as a part of the program. IC3 can be used as an option to "test out" of some technology classes. In addition to integration into the U.S. school system, IC3 has gained acceptance in Asia, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America in education, vocational schools, and government workforce development programs.
Each exam of the IC3 consists of 45 multiple choice, matching, and "hands on" performance-based questions. Each exam also has a 45 minute time limit.
"Computer Fundamentals" deals with hardware, software, and operating systems. The maximum score is 1000, the minimum passing requirement is 800.
"Key Applications" covers generic program functions, as well as basic Word and Excel functions. The maximum score is 1000, the minimum passing requirement is 750.
"Living Online" deals with the internet and networks, e-mail, web browsers, and the general impact of the internet on society. The maximum score is 1000, with a minimum passing score of 800.