Course Overview

Learn the names and functions of the different parts of a computer.  Consider the factors that affect a computer’s performance.  Discover how to create directories and manage files.  Become confident in all aspects of word processing, including tables and mail merge.  Explores aspects of spreadsheets of which you may not be aware, such as the use of relative, mixed and absolute cell referencing in formulae. Gain expert skills in the use of databases.  Find out how to design a successful presentation for any occasion.

Pre-requisites

Previous experience is not essential for this course, although some familiarity with computers and the common software applications would be an advantage.

Qualification

European Computer Driving Licence

Support and benefits

• Complimentary CD-ROM in the Skillbuilder format.  For each lesson there is a pre-assessment and a post-assessment, allowing you to test your progress.
• Internationally recognised qualification, much sought after by employers
  

Key topics

• Basic Concepts of IT

Explore general IT concepts and hardware. Discover how to perform basic system maintenance. Consider the use of IT in everyday life, and examine health and safety issues. Examine the importance of keeping confidential information secure.

• Using the Computer and Managing Files

Learn how to perform basic computer operations. Explore the desktop and learn how to manage files. Examine viruses and discover how to protect your computer. Explore printing.

• Word Processing

Examine common word processing operations and then consider formatting, objects and mail merge.

• Spreadsheets

Learn how to work with cells, columns and rows. Explore worksheets, formulae and functions. Discover how to format cells and how to produce charts and graphs.

• Databases

Examine basic database concepts and learn how to work with tables and forms. Discover how to retrieve information and how to produce reports.

• Presentations

Discover how to develop a presentation and how to work with text, images, charts/graphs and drawn objects. Explore various slideshow effects.

• Information and Communication

Examine the Internet, Web navigation, Web searching and email. Explore security considerations. Learn how to effectively manage your emails.

Course Code

503

Hours of study

60 hours

Technical requirements

Minimum system requirements: Pentium with 233 MHz or higher; 64 MB RAM (128 MB RAM recommended); 800 x 600 resolution & 256-bit colour (1024 x 768 & 16-bit recommended); audio hardware recommended but not required; 15" monitor (17" monitor recommended).

Outline

You will complete one computer-based assessment for each of the seven ECDL modules. These assessments can be sat in any order and either all at once or over a period of time. On successful completion of each assessment your assessment logbook will be signed. Once your logbook has been signed seven times – indicating that you have passed all seven assessments – you will receive your ECDL.

Assessment Breakdown

Please note that the following details are intended only as a rough guide; the exact format of each assessment is subject to change.

• Assessment 1: 2 tasks and 17 multiple choice questions
• Assessment 2: 9 tasks and 3 multiple choice questions
• Assessment 3: 14 tasks
• Assessment 4: 15 tasks
• Assessment 5: 14 tasks
• Assessment 6: 15 tasks
• Assessment 7: 7 tasks and 4 multiple choice questions

Each assessment must be completed within 23 minutes.

Notes

Tasks are designed to test your knowledge of computer software. They require you to carry out an activity on the computer, such as send an email.

Each multiple choice question comes with four potential answers. Only one of these answers is correct; the other three are wrong. You must identify the correct answer.

ECDL tests can be sat at an accredited testing centre. Please note that assessment fees are additional to your course fees.