[Posted 11 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Many different companies offer knowledge- and performance-based testing of computer skills and provide certification programs in various aspects of computer technology. Certiport, an American company founded in 2000, is one of the leading providers of certification examinations designed to test competency in the operation of computers and computer systems. The IC3 certification program tests general computer knowledge and is not targeted at any brand of computer or operating system.
The designation “IC3” is an abbreviation that stands for “Internet and Computer Core Certification” and also represents the three areas covered by the certification; Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online. Earning an IC3 certification can open the door to new employment opportunities and opportunities for advancement for an individual interested in a career in computer installation, repair and operation.
The Computing Fundamentals examination tests an individual’s knowledge of computer hardware, software, basic operations and system set-up. Here are some things that a potential test-taker needs to know before attempting the Computing Fundamentals examination and the IC3 certification process.
IC3 Certification Basics
Each separate examination that comprises the IC3 certification consists of 45 multiple choice questions. The maximum possible score on each test is 1000 points, and to successfully pass and become IC3 certified an individual must earn a score of at least 710 points per section. The three modules of the IC3 examination are offered at testing locations within the United States and around the world. The tests must be taken at one of these approved locations under the supervision of a proctor.
Material Included In the Computing Fundamentals Examination
As the name would suggest, the Computing Fundamentals examination covers all the basics of computers and computer systems. The following topics are included on the Computing Fundamentals examination:
• Names and uses of computer and peripheral components
• Computer memory and storage
• Input and output devices
• Computer performance
• Computer security
• Troubleshooting common problems
• Computer maintenance and repair
• Basic knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentation software
• Operating and networking basics
Preparing for the Examination
The questions on the Computing Fundamentals examination are designed to test knowledge in many different areas of computing. For a student who is relatively new to computers, an in-depth study course may be necessary to successfully pass the examination. An individual who has extensive experience with computers and computer systems may only need a brief review of the material covered on the test. All potential test-takers benefit from taking a practice examination. A practice version of the test familiarizes the test-taker with the format and time constraints of the actual test. Practice tests and study materials are available on-line.
After completing a practice test, the test-taker is issued a report that includes their overall score and how they performed in different areas covered by the test. This information allows student who did not pass the practice examination to prepare more effectively to re-take it and highlights knowledge gaps for students who did successfully pass the practice test.
The IC3 Computing Fundamentals examination can be attempted multiple times, so if an individual does not pass the first time, he or she can pursue further studies and re-take the test again. In order to achieve full IC3 certification from Certiport, all three sections of the examination must be passed. The only to ensure that test-takers will pass all three sections of the exam is to fully prepare themselves by reviewing the study materials offered by Total Seminars. Total Seminars offers a variety of study materials and practice that will help individuals gain computer literacy and pass their exams.
