Innovation in computer education curriculum for the computerization of Saudi Arabia: a model for developing countries

One major obstacle impeding industrialization in developing countries is a severe shortage of trained personnel in technological and information fields. Saudi Arabia is no exception. In order to fulfill the country´s developmental objectives, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has endeavored to reorganize and improve its educational systems. One area of education that has undergone profound change and significant progress is computer education. Comprehensive Education Programs have been created and implemented in a new institution for computer education, the College of Computer and Information Sciences (CCIS). This paper discusses the program objectives, educational philosophy, the vigorous CCIS undergraduate curricula, and a brief summary of the college concrete accomplishments. It is believed that the CCIS program´s innovative approach to curriculum development can serve as a structural model and example for programs in developing countries undergoing rapid computerization, and for universities and technical colleges with similar educational needs