Information Technology or IT is in demand worldwide. To be IT certified, there are qualifications you would need to achieve.
One of these is ECDL which is recognized internationally as a qualification with regards to computer skills. ECDL is the European Computer Driving License course but is known as ICDL or the International Computer Driving License outside of Europe.
To be able to gain certification in ECDL, you must be able to complete seven ECDL courses or modules and tests of different computer skills. The modules and tests include Basic Concepts of IT, Using the Computer and Managing Files, Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Databases, Presentations, Information and Communication. Here is a brief description of each of these ECDL courses.
The Modules within ECDL Courses
ECDL Essentials is the first level of modules with ECDL courses. It is basically a computer course introduction which provides information about the interaction with computers from start-up to its usage and computer housekeeping. This computer course also includes a lesson on how to use the internet and electronic mail safely and securely. The information technology course involves how to browse the internet and to know more about computer security in surfing as well as sending and receiving emails.
Another of the ECDL computer courses is the ECDL Level 2 Extra wherein basic understanding of computer applications is taught. One is Word Processing which involves how to create word-processed documents, as well as entering text, formatting and editing while being able to create and use graphs, tables, as well as pictures. This involves the use of Word Processing as well as the tools that come with it such as the mail merger and the spell-check. This computer course also teaches how to use spreadsheet software that trains students to be able to create professional documents.
Another application that is taught within ECDL Courses are the Presentation Software wherein students would learn to create presentations using different computer software applications such as Power Point and the use of different methods such as charts and graphs. The computer course provides information and training in using different applications and tools and to be able to determine which is appropriate and which saves more time and effort without compromising professionalism and efficiency.
The Level 3 of ECDL Courses is the application of all software and tools that were taught in the previous courses on business operations and interactions. This involves being able to effectively put the employer’s preferences to work and to be able to meet customer demands efficiently. This would now mix all the trainings in the past by putting them together to work side by side to be able to create professional output for both employers and customers.
The Advantages of Taking ECDL Courses
There are several advantages to taking ECDL courses. It helps one to gain the knowledge and the confidence needed when applying for computer-related jobs and tasks. It gives you those extra points to be able to be regarded more for a position. ECDL certification is also honoured worldwide so you would be able to offer more no matter where you are in the world. ECDL courses effectively bridges the gap by providing up-to-date IT information and applications.
About ECDL
The European Computer Driving License (ECDL) is the world’s leading computer skills certification program.
This not for profit foundation has been supported and renowned by international organizations as well as private corporations and IT societies. ECDL works with national and global authorities, national governments, Non-Governmental Organizations and other developments in the deliverance of certification in computer literacy. Delivering certification programs to more than 11 million individuals in 41 languages all over the globe, ECDL has been successful with their certification programs prepared by their experiences over the decades that created their now excellent global status.
The ECDL Foundation’s program in certifying individuals around the globe has reported success on individuals with their job search and organizations with productivity. ECDL certified individuals can find jobs easily with their competency certification by ECDL under their belts.
The Success of ECDL
The success of ECDL is the product of commitment in their development of ecdl course content with high quality standards that is validated with thorough testing on their design methodologies. The ECDL Foundation provides high ranking and world class computer literacy certification supported by international IT societies and organizations.
ECDL was recommended to become a national certification scheme in Europe by EDIS (Earth Science Data and Information System) in 1995. Developed through a task force of the CEPIS (Council of European Professional Informatics Societies), ECDL receives funding through ESPRIT, the Leonardo da Vinci Program and the EU Commission.
Candidate Requirements
Available in 148 countries, the ECDL Foundation issued over 11 million of their skills cards to people who need their IT competence and knowledge demonstrated. This certifies them being computer literate with the use of the computer and software applications. ECDL courses are available for free at local ecdl test centres for candidates with the skill requirements, so no need to worry about the ecdl course cost or funding for ecdl. This certification has been beneficial with claims of increased efficiency and job search improvement.
The ECDL practical skills and competencies examination consist of 7 categories that involves computer hands on and theory knowledge. Passing the 7 categories is needed to obtain a certification by ECDL.
7 modules of ECDL
• Concepts of Information Technology
• Using the Computer and Managing Files
• Word Processing
• Spreadsheets
• Databases
• Presentations
• Information and Communication
Additional modules have been added in the recent years but not yet available in all countries which are 2D computer aided design, image editing, web editing, health information system usage, IT security and project planning.
ECDL Advanced Courses offers four sections which are word processing, spreadsheets, databases and presentation.
The Mission
Delivering excellent global certification programs utilizing Information and Communication Technology, the ECDL Foundation’s mission is to empower individuals and companies in attaining superior productivity and promotion of ECDL certified individuals. ECDL delivers ICT certification to qualified and willing individuals worldwide for easier job prospecting and to demonstrate their certification on computer skills.
ECDL Foundation offices are in Dublin, Brussels, and Singapore working with partners around the globe to implement and issue certification programs. To achieve consistency of program implementation globally, their operations is under strict quality assurance standards.
