BCIT Computing has recently launched a new microcredential in Low-Code Mobile Application Development (LCAD). We caught up with developer and lead instructor Erika Ram to discuss what students can expect to learn, why microcredentials could be right for them, and more.
Q: What will students learn in Low-Code Mobile Application Development?
Erika: In LCAD, you will create mobile and business apps through visual drag-and-drop interfaces with simple logic—without coding from scratch. We incorporate a blend of practical technical skills and core competencies such as collaboration, digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving that can be applied to various industries. Upon completion, you will have greater confidence in your ability to participate as an inventor, innovator, and agent of change to solve practical problems.
Q: For those who don’t know, what is a microcredential?
Erika: Microcredentials are flexible, small, bite-sized learning pieces that address an industry skill gap. They are competency-based, which focuses on practical demonstrations of learning and mastery of skills rather than memorization-focused exams.
Q: What’s the format and time commitment?
Erika: Microcredentials are taught part-time and are structured to fit your schedule. The LCAD microcredential includes three courses over a total of 12 weeks. It’s entirely online, with a blend of live and self-paced classes. Each week, there is a two-hour live Zoom session offered on Monday or Tuesday evenings, and you should expect to complete an additional four hours of self-directed (asynchronous) content throughout the week. For maximum flexibility, it’s possible to complete the program entirely asynchronously, but you must reach out to me once the course starts.
Q: At the end of the three courses, what can students expect to leave with?
Erika: By the end of this program, you’ll have built a customer relationship management system (CRM) mobile application that allows someone to:
- Authenticate users
- Store and edit customer data
- Retrieve, search, and filter data
- Share information across users
You can also use these skills to customize your own mobile app and develop their own ideas and needs as well as add specialized integrations including:
- Take and upload photos
- GPS tracking and maps
- Scan QR and barcodes
- Book appointments
- Track customer interactions
- Rules and workflows for specific users
- Ratings or voting
Q: What’s next for students once they finish a microcredential?
Erika: Technology and digital literacy skills are more important than ever. Every job in nearly every industry leverages technology to be more productive, reliable, and improve business outcomes. Although there are not typically “low-code mobile app developer” jobs, the skills built in this program lend themselves well to several industries and roles, including:
- Business technologist
- Entrepreneur
- Small business owner
- Working professionals/Tech enthusiasts looking to learn and apply app development concepts and processes
- Citizen mobile application developer
Students may also continue their learnings in mobile application development with the:
Applied Software Development Associate Certificate,
Web and Mobile Application Development Associate Certificate,
or Computer Systems Technology Diploma.
Q: Thank you for the background on this new microcredential. Where can students register and learn more?
Erika: Students can register for the program on a course-by-course basis online and can learn more through contacting us. View course availability on our website.
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