The ECDL is a new European-wide qualification which enables people to demonstrate their competence in computer skills. Its aims are:

• to raise the general level of competency in IT
  to improve productivity at work
  to enable employers to invest more efficiently in IT
  and to ensure that best practice and quality issues are understood and implemented

Frequently asked questions about ECDL

The modules are:

Basic concepts of IT
Using the computer and managing files
Word processing
Spreadsheets
Databases
Graphics
Networking

Candidates will purchase a logbook listing all the modules. As they pass each module, the accredited testing body will sign the logbook. The modules may be taken in any order and over any period of time - even all at once - offering maximum flexibility. When all the modules have been successfully completed, the logbook is exchanged for a certificate. Users may, if they wish, just walk in off the street and take the tests. More likely, they will opt for courses based on the ECDL syllabus.

for the individual? ECDL is designed to help people at work and at home. It will confirm to potential employers that the person has a professionally recognised, relevant and up-to-date qualification and it will assist in raising familiarity with the technology and its uses.

for the employer? ECDL helps provide proof of competency in the computer skills of potential employees. Similarly, a company looking to train up its workforce will want to ensure that the money they spend on courses is going to be well spent. The proliferation of different courses making varying claims, often without any objective evidence makes a daunting choice for employers and individuals alike.

for the training provider? Colleges and other training providers are well aware of the importance of Information Systems to the world of work - and increasingly, to the individual in their day-to-day life. Indeed, many courses already incorporate elements of the teaching of basic and advanced computer skills - but there is no widely accepted qualification.

Now, a Europe-wide recognised qualification - the European Computer Driving Licence - is set to meet these needs - and more.

Colleges, schools, training companies, etc. may offer courses designed to lead to the passing of the individual parts and the awarding of the certificate. No accreditation is required.

Courses may take any form. It is envisaged that in addition to day and evening classes at colleges and training companies, the contents of the syllabus will be incorporated into school and university curricula. To ensure access to the greatest numbers, they will also be made available via distance learning and on day release.

It is set to become the most widely recognised qualification in the field of work-related computer use, partly because it is targeted at the full spectrum of the population, and partly because of the support and monitoring of the organisations behind it.

The organisations behind ECDL represent the full spectrum of industry and academia. Moreover, it is fully supported by the European Union, thereby ensuring standards and levels of quality throughout Europe.

The implementation of ECDL in the UK is being managed by the British Computer Society.

Frequently asked questions about ECDL

ECDL (W3)
The British Computer Society
1 Sanford Street
Swindon
Wiltshire SN1 1HJ

Main BCS switchboard: 01793 417417
ECDL office: 01793 417424
Fax: 01793 480270
ecdl@bcs.org.uk