About KiwiSkills
KiwiSkills is a programme designed to tackle digital literacy, or core computing skills, in a completely different way to significantly raise the confidence and competence of New Zealanders using technology, and hence the productivity and efficiency of New Zealand.
Digital literacy isn't about just knowing how to use a computer. It's about using technology in the most efficient, productive and positive way possible. It's about creating opportunities for New Zealand and New Zealanders to flourish.
What's it all about?
KiwiSkills combines internationally-recognised digital literacy standards, accessibility of training and courseware at a level not seen before, awareness and advocacy for computing skills, and involvement of the wider IT and training communities to tackle this issue together.
KiwiSkills focuses on core software in the first instance, such as the computer and its operating system, accessing and using the Internet, plus core productivity software such as word processors, spreadsheets and the like.
Setting a Benchmark
At the core of KiwiSkills is the need to set a benchmark, or standards, for digital literacy skills in New Zealand. Most other countries have a recognised or defacto benchmark in place, and it's time NZ did too.
Standards are essential, as they help draw a line in the sand by defining what skills are essential in society and in the workplace.
NZCS endorses and independently oversees the following standards:
International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL)
ICDL is the world-leading independent digital literacy standard, operating in 148 countries with almost 10 million participants. ICDL focuses on the skills required to work and live productively and efficiently, and fully participate in digital society.
e-Citizen
e-Citizen is a foundation-level programme, focused on those with very limited knowledge of computers and the Internet. It is designed to get people online and confident using computers.
ICDL Advanced
Advanced skills in Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Database and Presentation.
Other Standards
While NZCS endorses and oversees the standards above, KiwiSkills is not about any one standard. NZCS also supports other qualifications such as the NZ Certificate in Computing, commercial programmes such as IC³/Kiwi Computer Challenge, and vendor-specific accreditations such as the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), Applications Specialist (MAS) and others.
Access to Training and Courseware
KiwiSkills provides unprecedented access to training and courseware options throughout New Zealand by building and maintaining a comprehensive list of all options available in your area.
At launch this includes the open test centres providing ICDL training and testing, however will be expanded over 2010 and 2011 to include all recognised digital literacy offerings in New Zealand.
Those that cannot access training through one of the accredited providers can purchase online courseware directly from the KiwiSkills site.
Community Support Licenses
To get things moving and to show we're serious NZCS will be providing:
- 1000 completely FREE online ICDL training packages for those working within charities in NZ
- 300 completely FREE ICDL certifications for those working within charities in NZ
- At least 500 completely FREE e-Citizen programmes for communities in need
- Ongoing FREE online ICDL training packages for those in the greatest need
This has an initial investment with a retail value of $300,000 for communities in need. A good start.
Advocacy
As part of the programme NZCS will continue to endorse and promote the benefits of digital literacy to New Zealand through a number of ongoing campaigns and initiatives, many in conjunction with partner organisations both in New Zealand and around the world.
And really, it's not a hard sell. The research is clear - New Zealand businesses have a HUGE amount to gain by addressing the digital skills of their staff.
Business and the Community
NZCS partners with businesses, training organisations and community groups throughout New Zealand to deliver digital literacy programmes based on the ideals and programmes of the KiwiSkills initiative.
NZCS has also called on their extensive network of members, partner organisations and other stakeholders to get involved, resulting in a true "all-of-sector" approach to tackling digital literacy in New Zealand.