Qualifications Computers and IT

ECDL Essentials

The internationally recognised European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) Essentials is a great introduction to IT.

You’ll learn the basics of using your computer, the internet and email safely.

Is this qualification right for you?

This qualification builds on your existing basic IT skills to show you how to:

  • use, organise and protect your computer
  • use Internet Explorer to browse the internet and email using Outlook

The ECDL Essentials qualification is for learners working towards level 1.

Here's a simple guide to explain what these levels mean, but we’ll help you work out what level suits you best before you start.

How will you learn?

You'll enrol and learn at one of our centres, where you'll get face-to-face support from our friendly staff.

Getting your qualification

To get your qualification you'll take a series of online tests at your centre. Your tutor will let you know when you're ready and they'll make sure you have lots of practice beforehand so you're fully prepared.

How much will it cost?

Thanks to Government funding, your courses and qualification may be free. We'll be able to tell you for certain when you get started with us.

How long does it take?

Between 2 and 6 months, but we'll agree a target end date with you when you enrol.

What do you learn?

As part of your ECDL Essentials qualification you'll cover the following topics:

Electronic Communication

Email and the internet give us access to a whole new world of online communication and entertainment. This course focuses on communicating by email and over the internet. You'll learn to:

  • send, receive and organise emails using Microsoft Outlook Express
  • use attachments
  • manage an address book of contacts or distribution lists
  • use instant messaging and internet conferencing
  • plan your social life by using the internet and social media to find information, organise events and buy tickets
  • use a search engine to find, bookmark, save and print information from websites
  • buy and pay for goods safely on the web
  • use the calendar and task manager in Outlook to plan events and manage your time and tasks
  • download useful software and use the internet to transfer files legally and safely
  • publish information on your own website, webspace or blog

IT User Fundamentals

IT User Fundamentals will show you how to maintain the hardware, software and files that your computer uses, so it keeps working well. You'll learn how to:

  • use the right IT systems to meet your needs
  • organise, store and access information on the desktop or in folders and files
  • follow and understand the need for online safety
  • carry out routine maintenance of IT systems, like updating your software and maintaining your drives and discs

IT Security for Users

IT Security for Users will help you to understand the IT security threats facing computers, so you can protect your data and stay safe. You'll learn how to:

  • create user accounts and passwords to protect your personal data on the web
  • understand the risks of online communities and social networking
  • understand different types of malware and what they can do to your computer
  • prevent viruses getting onto your computer through spam email
  • avoid online fraud, like phishing scams
  • keep your network secure, especially when using wi-fi
  • back up data and recognise different portable storage devices like USB sticks and recordable DVDs
  • understand how data protection laws work

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My IT skills were very basic so I started with the ECDL qualification, which I knew would improve my prospects for the future. I've now got a new career and I couldn't be happier!

Nigel Guppy
49
Poole

Getting started

To get started please contact your local centre to find out if they offer this qualification or other similar IT qualifications.

Find your local centre

  • Get face to face tutor support
  • Free access to a computer and the internet to do your learning
  • Meet other learners and make new friends

Find your local centre:


Or call 0800 101 901 if you need more information about learning with us.

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