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Computing

ICDL Essentials (Formerly ECDL)

Campus OL - Open Learning/Cross Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 5

Study mode Open learning

Duration 41 weeks

Start date Aug 2023

Cost £138
(see funding options)

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Course overview

The International Certificate in Digital Literacy (formerly European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)) is a Europe-wide qualification that enables individuals to demonstrate their competence in computer skills and become more confident in the workplace. This is a formal qualification which will provide you with a better understanding of computer programs you may have to use at work. The course is designed to give you a beginner's overview of computer use including the use of the internet and email. This course is the ideal introduction for those who have little or no computer experience. During this course, you will cover the key concepts of computing, its practical application and its use in the workplace and society in general.

ICDL has been split into three different levels to make it more achievable; Essentials, Extra and Advanced which are all validated through the British Computer Society. All the ICDL open learning courses are eligible for ITA (SDS Individual Training Accounts) funding. This is up to £200 towards the cost of a course.

Please note: There are 3 diagnostic tests and 3 exams for this course and you must sit them all at an Edinburgh College campus. 

If you don't sit them at an Edinburgh college campus, you will need to source your own BCS-accredited testing centre and pay their additional fees to use it.

A Windows device is a requirement as the learning materials are not compatible with Macs and other platforms

What you will learn

  • IT User Fundamentals
  • Using Email and the Internet
  • Security for IT Users

How the course is assessed

  • You will be assessed through online closed book exam-style assessments, these will be mostly practical focused with some theory.

Please note: There are 3 diagnostic tests and 3 exams for this course and you must sit them all at an Edinburgh College campus. 

If you don't sit them at an Edinburgh college campus, you will need to source your own BCS-accredited testing centre and pay their additional fees to use it.

    Number of days per week

    • This is an open-learning course. There will be a cut-off where you will have to have completed the course so be mindful of when you join the course throughout the year in order to give yourself enough time.

    Entry requirements

    • No formal qualifications needed

     

      English Proficiency Requirements

      IELTS 5.5

      Progression and Articulation Routes

      • ICDL Extra or Computing with Digital Media Level 4

       

        Career options

        • This qualification enhances chance of employment and promotion.

         

          Study Options

          Campus Study mode Start date Duration Cost
          OL - Open Learning/Cross Campus Open learning 28/08/23 41 Weeks £138

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