The Cultural Competence in Computing (3C) Assessment is designed to help universities and companies measure the cultural competence of students, faculty, and staff. Cultural competence was first defined in social work in 1989, as graduates must effectively communicate and work with clients from various identities (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, class, sexuality, and ability), especially vulnerable populations. It quickly expanded into education and healthcare, for the same reasons. While computing graduates may not work directly with vulnerable populations, there is plenty of evidence that shows how the technologies created impact vulnerable populations in ways that can be just as problematic. In addition, tech companies have long faced serious problems due to a lack of equity and inclusion (which directly impact diversity) in computing environments.

For this reason, it was important to not only teach about these topics in computing, but also find a way to accurately measure it as a means for improving both these environments and the technologies they produce.

Timeline

Below is the annual timeline for requesting, distributing, and receiving results of the 3C Assessment. Please review this before submitting requests. *NOTE: Any requests received after the deadline will be included in the subsequent semester.*

Fall Semester

• August 4: Deadline to Request Fall Distribution
• mid-August through mid-September: Assessment Distribution
• November 1: Reports Provided
• January 4: Deadline to Request Spring Distribution

Spring Semester

• January 4: Deadline to Request Fall Distribution
• mid-January through mid-February: Assessment Distribution
• April 1: Reports Provided
• August 4: Deadline to Request Spring Distribution

Interested in Using the 3C Assessment?

Please review the deadlines for completing requests. We will be soliciting for participants in the spring 2022 semester later in the fall 2021 semester.

FAQ

Review the Assessment FAQ for answers to a number of questions about the assessment.