Unit 1 Fundamentals of IT LO4 – Understand employability and communication skills used in an IT environment 4.6 – Professional Bodies 4.7 – Industry Certification

4.6 - Professional Bodies

Starter Which of these following bodies have you heard of or recongise?

Lesson Objectives Be aware of professional bodies in area of IT and Computing Understand the purpose of a professional body Explain the benefits and limitations of being a member of professional body for: Employers Workers themselves

What is a professional body? A professional body or institute is an organisation set up to represent and promote the profession of IT/Computing and the members interest in the specific field of work. Professional bodies are non-profit and funds itself by each member paying an annual fee. What do they do: Set standards for the profession People join and become members May have to meet certain professional standard to join Some act as societies Some even certificate qualifications May have to be a member to work in a specific field. A typical structure of an institute is: An elected executive board with a chairman or president. A number of committees to represent special interest groups A membership system A resource facility such as a library and other educational resources A communication method such as a monthly magazines and web site

Activity 1 You are to put yourselves in the shoes of a head of an IT firm. You are to created an information document for members of your workforce to explain the 2 main professional bodies: BCS UK IT Association Your document must explain: The purpose and role of each of the professional bodies What benefits they offer What limitations there are Summary on which is most useful and why

4.7 –Industry Certification

Starter What are the benefits and drawbacks of going to university or going straight into work/apprenticeship?

Lesson Objectives Have an understanding of different industry certifications. Understand why gaining an industry certification is useful What benefits and limitations do certifications have on the employers and the workers themselves

Industry Certifications Certified course and training National & International Recognition Shows levels of knowledge, understanding and experience in specific areas Provides opportunity to achieve new skills and knowledge Examples: Cisco and CompTia Can you find out any more?

Activity “Industry certification is better than a degree” Research the following motion: “Industry certification is better than a degree” Find out whether UK companies are for or against the motion. Then write a summary report on pros and cons for both industrial certification and subject-based degrees with a conclusion on your findings