ECDL Core

What is ECDL Core?

ECDL Core is a test of practical skills and competencies and consists of seven separate modules covering computer theory and practice. To achieve an ECDL Core certification, the Candidate must successfully pass a test in all seven modules.

ECDL Module 1 is a theoretical test of computing knowledge at a general level and modules 2-7 are practical skills tests, as follows:

Module 1 - Concepts of Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
Module 2 - Using the Computer and Managing Files
Module 3 - Word Processing
Module 4 - Spreadsheets
Module 5 - Using Databases
Module 6 - Presentation
Module 7 - Web Browsing & Communication

Who is ECDL Core for?

The ECDL programme is for anyone who needs to demonstrate to an international standard that they are fully competent in the use of a personal computer and common computer applications and that they know the essential concepts of Information Technology.

Prospective Candidates should ideally have used computers and the common software applications before. Other programmes are also available for those with other requirements.

Benefits of ECDL Core

Today, computer skills are increasingly important to people in all walks of life. ECDL is an information technology certificate for all citizens. It is intended for those who need to, or wish to, know how to use a personal computer. It is suitable for people from every work discipline, for people entering the job market, and for all ages.

Benefits for Candidates:

Increases essential ICT knowlege/skills
Increases confidence in computer use
Provides internationally-recognised qualification
Improves job prospects and job mobility
Provides a platform from which to move on to higher-level ICT education

Training

ECDL Core is covered in Forms 2, 3 and 4, thus giving our pupils the opportunity to get the certification at an early stage.
We also offer ECDL Core courses and testing for adults outside school hours. These courses can be organised on demand for groups of not less than 6 persons.

Testing

ECDL Core tests are undertaken on EnlightKS automated testing software at our accredited ECDL Test Centre. Candidates undertake a test on a computer, which then automatically assesses the candidates' performance, and provides immediate pass/fail feedback to both the centre and the candidates. The use of automated testing simplifies the testing and administration procedures in a test centre, and makes it very efficient.
The duration of each test is 45 minutes. No books or other help may be used during the tests.
The pass mark for each module is set to be 75%.
The seven tests may be taken in any sequence and at any time in any accredited ECDL Test Centre within 3 years, from the date of the first successful test. Candidates will need to purchase a new Skills Card and resit all tests if they do not manage to do all tests within the 3 year period.
Candidates failing ECDL Core tests are allowed to retake different test versions of the same module at the same Test Centre. Candidates are encouraged to attempt the mock before taking tests. Candidates are strongly encouraged to liaise with the ECDL Test Centre to sit for mock/diagnostic tests.
Candidates who are not satisfied with the assessment process of their ECDL Core test are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the Test Centre. If they are not satisfied with the outcome of these discussions, they are encouraged to send an email/letter to ECDL Malta explaining their concerns.

Certification

The ECDL Core Certificate is awarded when all seven module tests have been successfully completed. The ECDL Core certificate awarded is referenced to Level Three of the Malta Qualifications Framework and the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning. This Certificate is comparable to a pass in one SEC subject. More information available here.

The ECDL Core certificate will NOT be issued immediately by the Test Centre. ECDL Malta will issue the certificate and pass this on to the Test Centre where the last test was held. Candidates will collect the certificate from the Test Centre where they had sat for their last test. The fee involved in issuing the ECDL Core certificate is incorporated in the cost of the Skills Card.

Candidates have the option of requesting an ECDL Start certificate after having successfully completed any four modules of the ECDL Core programme. Candidates will still have the option of obtaining the full certificate once all modules have been passed. However, this will only be issued against an additional charge as indicated by the Test Centre.

Adapted from http://ecdl.com.mt