ECDL - European Computer Driving Licence
What is ECDL?
The ECDL is the global standard in end-user computer skills. It is a high-quality, internationally recognised certification designed, validated and approved by international experts from around the world. It is one of the most widely recognised computing qualifications.
The ECDL Foundation has successfully delivered programmes to over 9 million people throughout 148 countries, and in 41 languages.
ECDL certifications:
- Are internationally-recognised
- Are implemented according to strict quality assurance standards
- Are suitable for all skills levels
- Are up-to-date, relevant and in line with market needs and technological advancements
- Are supported by a range of training options and materials, suited to the training needs/schedule of the candidate
By achieving the ECDL you will gain the confidence, basic skills and knowledge to use computers and a wide range of common IT software packages. The qualification will help with your current job role and enhance your career prospects regardless of where in the EU you might choose to work. The ECDL is recognised throughout the EEC.
In the UK the ECDL is managed by the British Computer Society (BCS). The BCS are responsible for awarding the qualification to successful candidates and auditing test centres yearly.
The ECDL qualification is known as the "International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL)" outside of Europe.
The ECDL (Core Units)
The ECDL Core is a high-quality, internationally recognised certification designed, validated and approved by international experts from around the world. It remains one of the most widely recognised computing qualifications and demonstrates transferable skills looked for and approved by employers everywhere.
The ECDL Core Syllabus consists of seven modules which define the skills and competencies necessary to be a proficient user of a computer and common computer applications.
The seven modules are as follows.
- Concepts of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Using the Computer and Managing Files
- Word Processing
- Spreadsheets
- Using Databases
- Presentation
- Web Browsing and Communication
On successful completion of all seven modules the candidate will achieve a full ECDL certificate.
Completion of ECDL Core certification is an objective measure of ICT skills and demonstrates an individual’s competency to existing and potential employers. Individuals who complete the certification can gain confidence and motivation through their ability to understand and use technology productively.
ECDL Core is recognised by both employers and the Government.
ECDL Essentials
*Please Note: This qualification is under review and though we are currently unable to offer this, we do hope to be able to offer this in the near future
ECDL Essentials is the new version of the Core ECDL part 1 and is now a nationally recognised stand-alone qualification. Previously, ECDL parts 1 and 2 made up the original ECDL qualification; however the new syllabus 5 allows ECDL Essentials to become a qualification in its own right. Essentials is designed to give users an introduction to computing with relevant skills in using the basic tools required for an IT user today. There are three modules that make up the qualification:
- IT User Fundamentals
- Using Email and the Internet
- Security for IT Users.
Candidates who complete this qualification will obtain an ECDL/ITQ Essentials certificate which will be a level 1 award qualification.
ECDL Extra
*Please Note: This qualification is under review and though we are currently unable to offer this, we do hope to be able to offer this in the near future
ECDL Extra is the new version of the Core ECDL part 2 and is now a nationally recognised stand-alone qualification. The new syllabus 5 allows ECDL Extra to become a qualification in its own right. ECDL Extra covers the office applications and is a full level 2 qualification designed to assess the core applications that a user requires:
- Word Processing (MS Word)
- Spreadsheets (MS Excel)
- Presentations (MS PowerPoint)
- Improving Productivity
‘Improving Productivity using IT’ is a mandatory unit giving the candidate the chance to use their skills in combining applications to produce a professional looking document. The module demonstrates that candidates can apply their skills and knowledge to develop a specified outcome, product or solution. The candidate must independently determine, select and apply the necessary IT tools and techniques to achieve their goal.
Candidates who complete this qualification will obtain an ECDL/ITQ Extra certificate which will be a full level 2 award qualification.
On completion of both qualifications the candidate will also achieve a full ECDL certificate.
