[BSDcert] Introduction, outcomes and flavours

[Louis Bertrand]

Hello all,

I teach in a program called "Computer Systems Technology"
at Durham College (Oshawa, ON). I'm interested in the topic
because it's a possible new "product" for the school, and
certs are a hot button topic around here already.

I'm still catching up with the archive, but I thought I'd
throw in a comment or two:

 Outcomes: this is a teacher-speak buzzword for "able to
  show a measurable skill". Outcomes-based learning puts
  the emphasis on evaluating a skill or a competency, as
  opposed to "covering the subject matter" and objectives.
  Any BSD cert should be based on a "show me", practical
  test (not just a bunch of multiple choice questions).
  This puts a stress on the testing process, but ensures
  a more meaningful (valuable) certificate. Multiple choice
  questions are easy to score on-line, but don't get at
  the higher cognitive levels (analysis, synthesis,
  evaluation).

 How to handle the multiple flavours:
  Use a modular approach: general BSD cert (userland and
  common chapter 8 commands), followed by *BSD specific
  endorsements. I think a junior/senior classification
  is useful too. This is like a pilot's license: private
  vs. commercial, then endorsements: single vs. multi-
  engine, and "checked out" on a specific aircraft type.

Ciao
 --Louis  <louis at bertrandtech dot ca>