computer / IT training courses
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| ECDL European Computer Driving Licence |
European Computer Driving Licence - ECDL
The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is the European-wide qualification which enables people to demonstrate their competence in computer skills. Its aims are:
- to raise the general level of competency in IT
- to improve productivity at work
- to enable employers to invest more efficiently in IT
- and to ensure that best practice and quality issues are understood and implemented
See also:
How does it work?
The ECDL syllabus is designed to cover the key concepts of computing, its practical applications and their use in the workplace and society in general. It is broken down into seven modules, each of which must be passed before the ECDL certificate is awarded. ECDL is open to anyone - regardless of age, education, experience or background. Candidates will purchase a logbook listing all the modules. As they pass each module, the accredited testing body will sign the logbook. The modules may be taken in any order and over any period of time - even all at once - offering maximum flexibility. When all the modules have been successfully completed, the logbook is exchanged for a certificate. Users may, if they wish, just walk in off the street and take the tests. More likely, they will opt for courses based on the ECDL syllabus.
What are the benefits for the individual?
The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is designed to help people at work and at home. It will confirm to potential employers that the person has a professionally recognised, relevant and up-to-date qualification and it will assist in raising familiarity with the technology and its uses.
What are the benefits for the employer?
The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) helps provide proof of competency in the computer skills of potential employees. Similarly, a company looking to train up its workforce will want to ensure that the money they spend on courses is going to be well spent. The proliferation of different courses making varying claims, often without any objective evidence makes a daunting choice for employers and individuals alike.
What are the benefits for the training provider?
Colleges and other training providers are well aware of the importance of Information Systems to the world of work - and increasingly, to the individual in their day-to-day life. Indeed, many courses already incorporate elements of the teaching of basic and advanced computer skills - but there is no widely accepted qualification. Now, a Europe-wide recognised qualification - the European Computer Driving Licence - is set to meet these needs - and more. Colleges, schools, training companies, etc. may offer courses designed to lead to the passing of the individual parts and the awarding of the certificate. No accreditation is required. Courses may take any form. It is envisaged that in addition to day and evening classes at colleges and training companies, the contents of the syllabus will be incorporated into school and university curricula. To ensure access to the greatest numbers, they will also be made available via distance learning and on day release.
How are people tested?
Testing will be carried out at audited testing centres.
Why is ECDL so effective?
The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is not like any other qualification - although it utilises the positive aspects of the best. It is set to become the most widely recognised qualification in the field of work-related computer use, partly because it is targeted at the full spectrum of the population, and partly because of the support and monitoring of the organisations behind it.
The syllabus
The syllabus is designed by a panel of European experts. It will be regularly updated to ensure its relevance to the working world and the advances in technologies and practices.
Accreditation
Accreditation of testing centres will be strictly controlled. Regular, rigorous audits of the centres will be carried out to ensure compliance with the syllabus and the appropriateness of the testing regimes. Whichever centre the individual uses to take their tests, standards and conformance will be guaranteed.
Conformance
Conformance with NVQs - ECDL has been designed to provide conformance with existing qualifications, including NVQs and other established keyboard tests. The organisations behind ECDL represent the full spectrum of industry and academia. Moreover, it is fully supported by the European Union, thereby ensuring standards and levels of quality throughout Europe. The implementation of ECDL in the UK is being managed by the British Computer Society.
ECDL Syllabus
Introduction to the ECDL Syllabus
- Module 1: Basic concepts of IT
- Module 2: Using the computer and managing files
- Module 3: Word processing
- Module 4: Spreadsheets
- Module 5: Databases/filing systems
- Module 6: Presentation and drawing
- Module 7: Information network services
No doubt, training material providers and automated test writers will be actively engaged in making any relevant changes to their products. The ECDL is based on a single agreed European Syllabus, as specified on this web pages. By having one Syllabus, the intention is to achieve a common standard and synchronise the different examinations.The overall objective of the ECDL programme is a general improvement in the basic knowledge of computers and a higher level of competence in computing throughout Europe. The ECDL is a European technology certificate for all European citizens. It is intended for those who need to, or wish to, know how to use a computer. It is suitable for people from every discipline and for people entering the job market, and for all ages from 8 to 80.
Today, computer skills are increasingly important to people in all walks of life. The ECDL is a certificate of proven competence. The ECDL dissemination programme differs from most national or international education programmes, since it is based on a standardised test or examination instead of a standardised teaching approach.
The importance of following the Syllabus must therefore be emphasised. A European Computer Driving Licence always certifies the same standard of competence, irrespective of a person’s nationality, residence, education, age or sex. The ECDL is awarded on the successful completion of one theoretical test and six Practical tests.
European Computer Log Book (ECLB)
The candidate will obtain a Log Book before taking the first test or be given one by the sponsoring organisation. A Log Book is an official document which is used to record the accreditation for each test successfully completed. As he or she passes each test, the Log Book will be updated. When all seven tests have been passed, the candidate (or test centre) will send the Log Book to the local ECDL office (BCS in UK) where it will be exchanged for a European Computer Driving Licence.
The test can differ in form between countries, but they still have the same Syllabus and shall therefore accredit the same level of competence in computing. Only a person with a satisfactory knowledge level shall be able to pass the test.
Tests
Normally all tests should be completed within three years of starting and may be taken at any accredited Centre in Europe. The tests do not have to be taken in the same Centre. The tests may be based on software from any supplier. Some of the tests may have options depending on the facilities available at the Test Centre. Some of the modules may be taken together using integrated software where this is available.
In order to maintain the ECDL standard all countries, Members of the ECDL Foundation, must have an authorised local organisation to monitor that the Syllabus has been used when creating the test.
The education and examination methods can differ between countries, but the people responsible appreciate the need for a valid and well-defined examination process. They are responsible to ensure that test centres reliably operate the process. The testing must be reliable and only those who prove to be skilled and with the right level of knowledge will pass the tests.
The process of awarding a European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) will be audited by the ECDL Foundation to maintain the standard.
Merkinch Technology Centre is a BCS Approved Test Centre
ILA Scotland (Individual Learning Accounts)
If you are over 18 and living in Scotland, you could get up to £200 towards the cost of learning new skills.
ILA Scotland is a Scottish Executive scheme which helps you pay for learning that you can do at a time, place, pace and in a way to suit you.
If you earn £18,000 or less, you could get up to £200 per year towards the cost of learning. If you earn more than £18,000 a year, you could get up to £100 a year towards some computer courses.
If you require more information about Individual Learning Accounts (ILAs) you can call them on
0808 100 1090 or visit their website at http://www.ilascotland.org.uk.
Training Links: | Commercial Computer Training | ESF Funded Community Computer Training |
| ECDL European Computer Driving Licence |
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