The ECDL Advanced units map directly to the National Occupational Standards (NOS) and they may be taken individually or as a Full Level 3 ITQ Certificate. Each unit carries credits on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

The BCS Level 3 Certificate in Using ICT (ECDL Advanced) is designed to serve as recognition of the complex skills and knowledge required for attainment at Level 3 within the QCF. It is aimed at the 'Power User' who is responsible for using common software applications to produce professional-looking and complex documents and outputs.

There are five units in the Full Level 3 ITQ Certificate:

• Word Processing Software (6 QCF Credits)
• Spreadsheet Software (6 QCF Credits)
• Database Software (6 QCF Credits)
• Presentation Software (6 QCF Credits)
• Improving Productivity Using IT (5 QCF Credits)

 

Improving Productivity Using IT

This unit allows the candidate to demonstrate the practical application of the skills they have learnt in the application units. In the test for this unit Learners are expected to make choices about applications and tools independently.

There are two ways to undertake assessment for this unit

• Either via a tested route which uses a series of scenarios created by BCS or approved automated test providers (when available)
• Or assessed via a portfolio of evidence

There are two sections in the test - Performance and Knowledge. The candidate will have 1 hour to complete both sections which are made up of a scenario and also twelve multiple choice questions to cover the knowledge items. The pass mark is 75% for Performance and 75% for Knowledge and a candidate must pass both parts to achieve the unit.