Vendor-neutral educational approach is the Game Changer needed

Is it possible that numerous students in the education system (i.e K-16) today are lacking in the basic ICT literacy skills required to even effectively operate a computer and navigate typical application suites?

Yes. Because to date, assessments and curricula have been primarily driven by competitive vendors with a primary interest in marketing tests for industry related computer skills, standards or technical competencies for jobs related to digital technology. For example, organizations such as Oracle, Microsoft, Cisco, Novell, Linux, a even Apple and Google, have wide‐ranging testing materials with support curriculum that relate directly to their products and services. Their skills tests, known generally as IT or ICT assessments, are available either directly from the company or through numerous resellers.

Most of these digital technology skills certifications and training programs are costly for the consumer and focus on identifying and validating use of vendor specific products and systems. The assessments seem to adequately measure and provide certification of higher‐level candidates on primarily the planned obsolescence technical skills.

Is such a game changer approach needed?