02 Background

2.1 History 2.2 Philosophies

2.1 History

Prior to 1988, the only nationally recognised programme in professional computing was the New Zealand Certificate in Data Processing (NZCDP). This programme no longer met the needs of the rapidly changing computer industry and its dated structure prevented the dramatic revisions that were called for. Many polytechnics had supplemented the NZCDP course with additional material to meet the existing needs of the computing industry requirements. During 1986 and 1987 the NZCDP Review Committee, comprising representatives from polytechnics and from the New Zealand computer industry, co-ordinated the massive task of creating the prescriptions, regulations and other details required for a new qualification. In 1988 the ‘Certificate in Business Computing’ qualification was introduced in many New Zealand Polytechnics, followed by the ‘Advanced Certificate in Business Computing’ in 1989 and by the ‘National Diploma in Business Computing’ in 1991. During 1991 the prescriptions were extensively revised with the credits and student learning hours being standardised across all modules, in anticipation of the adoption of this philosophy by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority for unit standards on the National Qualifications Framework. The 1991 revision created a continuum of modules at three distinct levels from which the three qualifications were structured. The revised prescription was introduced in 1992. The Personal Computer Drivers Licence award was introduced in June 1998 in response to market demands. In 1999 NZQA approved a name change for the Advance Certificate in Business Computing, which became the Diploma in Business Computing, to bring it into line with current NZQA naming conventions. At the same time the credit value of modules changed from 60 credits per module, or multiples thereof, to 7 credits per module, or multiples thereof, to conform to the NZQA Framework standards.

2.2 Philosophies   top

The philosophies adopted for the development and maintenance of these programmes are as follows: 2.2.1 The programmes must be capable of rapid response to significant industry changes. 2.2.2 The programmes must offer the possibility of in-depth study of chosen areas, reflecting the increasing diversity of knowledge requirements and career options. 2.2.3 The programmes must be capable of satisfying the differing regional needs throughout New Zealand. 2.2.4 The programmes must ensure that the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi issues, as related to the industry, is addressed. 2.2.5 The programmes must set an appropriately high standard for entry into the New Zealand computing profession. 2.2.6 The programmes must be the outcome of continuous close liaison between the New Zealand computing profession and New Zealand Polytechnic educators. 2.2.7 Assessment must be based on the concept of mastery, where a target level of skills and/or knowledge is defined, and the student is required to demonstrate that they can achieve the target. 2.2.8 The programmes must be maintained as national courses with consistent nation wide standards, producing portable and recognised qualifications. 2.2.9 The programmes must promote a critical approach to tasks, and must promote the development of powers of reasoning, expression, and independent thought in individual students.