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The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)
by Pandora321
The European Computer Driving Licence is an internationally-recognised computer course covering all the basics of PC use and the Microsoft Office suite. I've used computers extensively for years but did not have any formal proof of my knowledge when job hunting so I've got very bored of sitting numerous repetitive IT tests when signing ... up with each agency. When I saw that my current employer offered the ECDL, therefore, I jumped at the opportunity to add it to my CV - and in work hours as well. Bonus!
The ECDL is run through the ECDL Foundation and my employer has a licence from them to run both the basic and advanced courses. I'm keen to do the advanced ones but decided to quickly run through the basic course first - you never know what handy hints you might pick up. The basic course is much cheaper (it was subsidised at my work so only £90 for the entire certificate, which my department paid for as part of my personal development). Each advanced module is £100 through my work, which is quite pricey but I'm hoping I can convince my department to pay again! As I haven't done the advanced modules yet, this review will concentrate on the basic course.
The basic ECDL course covers 7 modules (below). Each is an online course that you can work through in your own time, with simulations of the computer desktop or program that you practise each task on. The program usually shows you how to do a task (such as cutting and pasting, for example) and then you get to practice it yourself in the simulation, with the computer correcting you if you go wrong. Each module is divided into many smaller sections, which makes it less daunting and much more manageable and means you can take regular breaks to rest your eyes (or brain with some of them!). There are also mini-quiz sections where you can practise your new knowledge under test conditions. You can repeat sections, or modules, as often as you like, and then, when you're ready, you sign up and take the large mock-test, which is extremely thorough. You can also take this as often as you like and it is a useful indicator of how you're doing and whether you're ready for the real test - you have to pay extra to re-take the real test so it's a good idea to pass this first time. If you do well on the mock then it's time to sign up and take the actual module exam, which has (depending on module) around 25-40 questions and takes up to 45 minutes.
You can take the seven modules in any order you like, so can start with those you feel most confident about and work up to the more tricky ones. The modules are:
1 - Concepts of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
This is really, really basic computer usage, from why and where computers are used to what viruses are etc. It's quite boring to be honest and you have to remember a lot of random facts that you really don't need to know to use a computer (such as how many MB a zip drive has). Our IT teachers actually recommended doing this module towards the end as it puts people off if they do it first! If you have never used a computer before, however, this would be quite a useful grounding in the basics.
2 - Using the Computer and Managing Files
This covered using the desktop, saving and moving files, backing up documents onto another drive etc. Mostly stuff I do without even thinking by now although, again, it would be very useful for those new to using a computer. For the rest of us it's just a module to work through quickly and get ticked off.
3 - Word Processing
i.e. Microsoft Word. Everything from opening files, saving, formatting text up to mail merging.
4 - Spreadsheets
i.e. Microsoft Excel. Again opening files and saving etc but also using templates and formulae and creating charts.
5 - Using Databases
Microsoft Access. Setting up a database, creating forms, running queries, filtering information etc.
6 - Presentation
Microsoft PowerPoint. Using templates and designs, formatting text, adding images and charts, slide show options.
7 - Web Browsing and Communication
The internet and Microsoft Outlook (email); using browsers and search engines, receiving and sending emails, organising your email folders etc.
The guidelines suggest each module will take around 30hours, but this is really dependent on your current knowledge. I've used computers daily and these programs (except Access) for years so I whizzed through each module in a couple of hours. I did Access from scratch in half a day, but it was quite a major brain drain so I'd recommend taking a bit more time (I had an exam deadline!). Even though I probably could just have gone straight for many of the exams, it's worth working through each module's online course because often you have to do the task a particular way (for example, cutting sometimes required you to use the scissor icon and you could not use CTRL+X or 'edit->cut'). I also learned a couple of handy things I didn't know about, such as the hyphenation option in MS Word, so it was worth working through the material.
Although the course is sometimes a bit frustrating when you can't do a task the way you would do normally (I found this particularly with PowerPoint as I know lots of short cuts that the program would mark as incorrect), overall I think the ECDL is an excellent course both for those who do not know these programs and want to learn them, because it covers everything from the complete basics up in an easy-to-understand format, and for those who know the programs but need to prove it to potential employers. The course was mostly interesting and kept my attention, and did not take very long to complete (I did the whole lot in 3 weeks because my employer was phasing it out, but suspect normally you'd spread it out over a few months). I particularly liked the fact that in the exam you gained points for each part of a question you completed - many I have done before only gave you one mark for up to four tasks and if you couldn't do all four of them you got 0, which is frustrating. In the ECDL you would only lose the point for the final part you couldn't do, which is much more sensible. I think the ECDL qualification is very good value for money, particularly if you can do the course through your work as part of your career/skills development. The only downside is that there is no Mac version for these users.
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The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)
by karenroach
I have to declare an interest here, I make my living teaching ECDL (European Computer Driving License) and other similar qualifications, so you know where I am coming from.
ECDL version 4.5 is as has already been mentioned an Internationally recognised qualificaion. In these troubled times, you never know when you might need a ... qualification that is recognised in a different country (only kidding).
It is from The BCS (British Computer Society) suite of qualifications. The BCS is the regulatory body for computer profesionals in this country, in much the same way that The Law Society regulates Lawyers and the British Medical Council regulates Doctors. This means that unlike some ICT qualifications out there, it is worth the paper it is written on.
You can do ECDL at levels 1, 2 and 3. At level 1 you learn about Computer Basics, File Managenmet and Electronic Communication. At level 2 you learn how to use Microsoft Word processing, Excel Spreadsheet, Access Database and Powerpoint presentation packages properly. You then take a general pop up, unit E, this rounds off your computer knowlege, and gives you the piece of paper to prove it. After you complete each module you sit a 45 minute exam which usually consists of about 20 questions. You require a 75% pass mark. Some of the tests are done online.
What some people don't realise is that you can go on to do ECDL at Advanced Level with Modules in Microsoft Word processing, Excel Spreadsheet, Access Database and Powerpoint presentation. When you reach this stage you are entitled to be called Microsoft Expert. The Exam for this level lasts and hour with 20 questions. It is quite hard to reach this level but, the skills you gain will allow you to enter a teaching course in ICT, Demonstrate a high level of skill in the workplace or run your own business effectively.
It's worth remember ing that your ECDL is equivalent to a GCSE and ECDL Advanced is Equivalent to an A-level so you really will have achieved something worthwhile.
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The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)
by sandra101
The European Computer Driving License has been around for a number of years now and is gaining in popularity all the time. I have noticed it showing up in more and more job advertisements as it shows that a candidate has a good all round knowledge of computer systems.
There are a large number of people out there a bit like ... myself who left school with a smattering of O'levels and possibly RSA stage 2 typing but who have been working on computers for many years, be it wordprocessing, spreadsheets, finance packages. They can't however apply for a job because although they can write a wee macro, add up figures, send emails they don't have the piece of paper to prove it. I decided to rectify this situation a couple of years ago and enrolled to take an ECDL course by elearning.
- - The Certification - -
Once you are registered with an ECDL Centre, a logbook with the 7 modules printed in it is issued. As each module is completed your logbook is stamped so you can take a partially completed logbook to a new provider if you move etc.
The modules may be taken in any order and over any period of time up to three years from the date of the first exam. When all 7 modules have been successfully passed, a certificate will be produced by BCS.
The ECDL also known as the ICDL is a recognised qualification in 148 coutries.
The ECDL covers a very broad range of skills: The exams can be taken using Office 2003 or 2007 whichever one you are more familiar with. Depending on where you take the exam it can be paper based e.g. you take the exam and have your work marked and the result in a few days or you can take the exam online (my preferred method) where you get the result immediately on completion.
- - The Modules - -
1. Basic concepts of IT
2. Using the computer and managing files
3. Word processing
4. Spreadsheets
5. Database
6. Presentation
7. Information and Communication
The pass mark for each of the modules is 75% so be warned while it's not the most difficult exam in the world this is quite a high mark to pass
- - Breakdown - -
ECDL Part 1 Basic concepts of IT
This module introduces you to the basics of a computer and the concepts of IT. It covers types of computer, processors, applications, data storage and memory and the uses of information networks.
You will also gain an understanding of how IT systems are found in everyday situations like ATMs; and will cover issues such as RSI, security and the data protection act.
ECDL Part 2 Using the computer and managing files
This module introduces the basic functions of a computer and the operating system. It teaches the desktop, understanding and organizing files, formatting and backing-up, directories/folders. You learn how to copy, move and delete files and directories/folders.
It also covers how to work with desktop icons and to manipulate windows and to use search features, simple editing tools and print management and using the recycling bin.
ECDL Part 3 Word processing
This module teaches from basic operations to the more complex. You will create, format and print documents, set page sizes experiment with tabs, tables, inserting pictures, etc. as well as covering merge letters and tables.
ECDL Part 4 Spreadsheets
This module teaches you to create a spreadsheet, format it and use basic formulas and functions. You will also be expected to import objects and create graphs and charts. Editing of graphs, using colours, shading, different types of tables will also appear on the exam. You will be required to find values in a column such as the maximum, minimum and average.
ECDL Part 5 Databases.
This module teaches you the basic concepts of databases. On completion you will be able to design and create a simple database, retrieve information from an existing database by using the query tool , create and amend reports and create and amend forms.
ECDL Part 6 Presentations.
This module teaches you the basics of using presentation software. You will be able to accomplish basic tasks such as creating, formatting and preparing presentations to make a powerpoint show. It covers how to create a variety of presentations for different target audiences or situations. It also teaches how to insert, pictures, clip art and use various slide show effects.
ECDL Part 7
Internet and Email. This module teaches you how to search the web to get better results. It also covers how to use search engine tools, to bookmark search results and to print Web pages and search reports. It also covers how to use electronic mail software to send and receive messages, how to attach documents or files to a message and to organize and manage message folders or directories within your email software. The exam is not based on any specific email programme.
- - The most popular ways to take this course are - -
An intensive course where you attend a College, Training provider for 7 days and take an exam at the end of each day
One Year Course - You attend College for 3 hours per week, from September to June taking an exam every 4 weeks or so.
Elearning - Study the course at home and attend a local College\Training Centre to take your exams.
As I was already pretty computer literate I chose the elearning method, I was able to access the online materials at a time which suited me and could choose whether to take days, weeks or months over the study. Access was via the internet 24 hours a day, a broadband connection being pretty much essential.
E-learning is particularly suitable for those with other commitments or a busy lifestyle; it is also appropriate for those who require certification as fast as possible. I only really concentrated on the Access Module as although I have used it I hadn't been using it on a daily basis. I was then able to go into College and take 3 exams one day and 4 the next. After 2 days studying and 2 days of exams I had the piece of paper proving that I could use a computer.
- - Tips - -
Just because you use Word and\or powerpoint everyday does not make you an expert, these two modules are the most commonly failed as folks don't bother attending class or studying the elearning course as they think they know it all. You may be surprised
For the online exam check your spelling - a human may be able to see what you mean and mark it correctly - a computer cannot.
Practice, practice, practice - Keep a spreadsheet and make a graph of your Christmas or monthly spend. Create a database of relatives, names, addresses and birthdays. Use these tools in every day life and they will stick with you.
Access is usually the most frightening exam as people do not tend to use this very often. Don't worry - if you can create a table, query it and make a report and form from it and have the ability to edit these pages then there is nothing new which will be thrown at you in the exam. Surprisingly this exam gets the highest pass rate.
For online exams you need to know how to print to file and how to paste a screen dump.
I hope this is helpful - good luck
Find the full ECDL syllabus at
http://www.ecdl.org.ro/download/ECDL%20V4.0.pdf
The price for an elearning ECDL from my local College is £43 for the course, £27 for the logbook and £50.00 for all seven exams. You can purchase the course as a standalone for £43 but I would advise you to take the exams and gain certification.
I wouldn't recommend you jump in at this level if you are only a beginner on the PC or if you only use it for dooyooing and surfing - try clait first.
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