European Computer Driving Licence

The ECDL/ ICDL certifies that the holder is competent in the use of a personal computer and common computer applications and knows the essential concepts of IT.

One of the most important advantages of the ECDL is that it is a flexible qualification. Study hours are likely to be dependent on the needs of the individual candidate. Generally, we advise a year for the course and between 4 - 6 hours of study a week.

The Modules

The ECDL/ ICDL is a test of practical skills and competencies and consists of seven separate modules covering computer theory and practice. Module 1 is a theoretical test of computing knowledge at a general level and Modules 2-7 are practical skills Tests, as follows:

1. Concepts of Information Technology (IT)
2. Using a Computer and Managing Files
3. Word Processing
4. Spreadsheets
5. Database
6. Presentation
7. Information and Communication

The Syllabus

The ECDL/ ICDL Syllabus is unique in that it has been designed to be entirely vendor-independent. This gives Candidates the flexibility and freedom to acquire these core skills and confidently apply them in any software environment they may be required to use.  Syllabus content for the ECDL/ICDL certification programme has been developed with inputs from the ECDL-F expert working groups comprised of professionals with wide-ranging specialist IT skills and through consultation with courseware providers and end-users.

The ECDL/ICDL is based on a single agreed Syllabus document. The Syllabus lists the facts to be known and the skills that must be mastered for a Candidate to achieve the ECDL certification.   To maintain the ECDL/ ICDL as the worldwide standard, the ECDL/ICDL Syllabus has evolved over the last six years from Version 1.5, to Version 3.0 and, more recently, to Syllabus Version 4.0 (released on April 4th, 2003).

The most recent Version 4.0 development process included over 1,200 documented expert inputs ensuring that the ECDL/ICDL continues to be relevant, up-to-date and meaningful.

Special Requirements

No prior computer skills are needed, but students MUST have OFFICE 2000 or Office XP.

Assessment

When a candidate registers to start the certification process, he/she receives a Skills Card on which the progress through the seven tests is recorded. As each module is passed, the accredited testing centre will endorse the Skills Card indicating the passing of that module. When all modules have been successfully completed, the Skills Card is forwarded and an ECDL licence/certificate issued. Skills Cards can be purchased from any accredited Test Centre for around £25.

ECDL students can register for their exams as they complete each module. It takes seven days to arrange the exams. Students can find their nearest accredited test centre via the ECDL web site (follow the link ,above right). If the student does not have access to the Internet, we will provide them with the information.

 

The exams cost upwards of £15 but this does depend on the individual centre.

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