ICDL Essentials Award in IT User Skills (formerly ECDL Essentials Award) Modules 1, 2 & 7

Course description

This BCS course introduces you to core IT user skills and applications used in many businesses around the world. Please note that ECDL has been split into two separate levels, ECDL Essentials and ECDL Core, to make it more achievable.  The qualification is designed to give you a beginners overview of using computers, including internet and email. The course is useful if: You want to develop a basic understanding of using IT systems; You are considering further learning in IT or a subject where basic IT skills are required; You are employed and want to prove to your employer that you can use IT systems safely and efficiently; You are employed and want to develop your existing skills for career progression; You are unemployed and would like to develop your IT user skills to help improve your prospects of getting a job; You are looking for formal recognition of your IT skills and knowledge; You want to prove your competence with a certificate from a leading professional body for IT. You will complete three units from the ITQ framework for this qualification: Using Email and Using the Internet IT Security for Users IT User Fundamentals Topics covered include: How to use a computer safely and securely; Understanding the importance of data security, and identifying common data/privacy protection, retention and control principles; Understanding network concepts and connection options and be able to connect to a network; Understanding key concepts of file management, be able to efficiently organise files and folders, and use utility software to compress and extract large files; How to search effectively for online information and critically evaluate web content. You will be allocated a tutor who will support you through the course (via email and on occasion over the phone) and ensure you stay on track by meeting deadlines as set out in the individual learning plan. To achieve the qualification you must pass 3 tests, which can be taken in any order. These are administered throughout Europe by accredited Test Centres, and each test takes 45 minutes. North East Scotland College has been approved by the BCS as an Accredited Test Centre. The course fees cover the cost of one attempt at each of the assessments, which must be taken at the College's Assessment Centre. The modules offer invaluable and transferable skills for individuals seeking employment, or advancement in posts where office IT skills are required. ECDL is recognised and valued in workplaces all over the world. Employers regard it as the international benchmark in IT user competence and meets the growing requirements for evidence of digital literacy from employers.