In 1993, Cando conducted a national survey of practicing Economic Development Officers (EDOs) to gain a clear picture of their education and training needs. The final report concluded that EDOs felt that additional relevant training was needed to provide them with the skills and knowledge required to effectively meet the demands of their jobs, and the full potential of their communities. Cando acted on the results by bringing professors in the field together with EDOs to develop the parameters of the Certification process. The respondents provided Cando with four guiding principles for education and training - it was to be:
Relevant
The Certification Process was developed through the DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) process, which means that those who do the job identified the skills and knowledge requirements.
Accessible
We recognize prior learning through the individual assessment process (you shouldn't have to return to school for what you've already learned!), and we will provide you with assistance and information no matter where you're calling from.
Affordable
Our admission fees are very reasonable, and we provide reference to scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.
Certified
We have a nation-wide network of post-secondary institutions that deliver courses that are part of the Certification Process.
The DACUM (Developing Curriculum) process was used to identify core competencies. Educators and EDOs worked together and agreed on a process to ensure the content was relevant to the field of Aboriginal economic development. The Process was the first national Professional Certification Process designed, developed and facilitated by an Aboriginal organization.
It allows EDOs and others working in the field to identify and demonstrate their current professional capacity and competency standards based on a national professional model. It is recognized by post-secondary institutions, Corporate Canada, and Aboriginal leadership.And finally, it attracts candidates interested in Aboriginal economic development by providing a relevant curriculum that leads to Professional designation. The Certification Process was designed with the input of those actually doing the job and has been updated and adapted to keep up with change.