Frequently asked questions
How long will it take me to achieve a
qualification?
The length of time to achieve a qualification
will depend on your current experience using a computer. For
those new to using computers it will take longer as you will carry
out a significant amount of learning. For those with some
experience the amount of learning is reduced therefore you should
achieve more quickly.
What is Level 1/Level 2?
The terms Level 1 and Level 2 come from the
qualifications framework for National Vocational Qualifications
(NVQs), of which there are 5 levels.
Level 1 is described as competence which
involves the application of knowledge and skills to a range of
varied work activities, most of which may be routine or
predictable.
Level 2 is described as competence which
involves the application of knowledge and skills in a significant
range of varied work activities, performed in a variety of
contexts. Some of the activities are complex or non-routine, and
there is some individual responsibility and autonomy. Collaboration
with others, perhaps through membership of a work group or team,
may often be a requirement.
If I am a novice to using computers
does that mean I should start at Level 1?
The right course for you will depend on what
your goals are in relation to using the computer. If you are a
novice but need to develop sound IT skills for work purposes to
create professional documents then a Level 2 maybe
appropriate. If you only need to use the computer
occasionally and to produce simple documents a Level 1
qualification might be all you need.
To ensure you are on the right course a tutor
will discuss your choice of qualification levels with you and
provide tailored advice and guidance.
Why is there a cost for some
qualifications and not others?
Some qualifications are free as they are a
government priority. The government wants to upskill the UK
workforce and encourage individuals to achieve a level 2
qualification, therefore funding is available to support those
learners to achieve a level 2.
Those qualifications that are not a priority
attract less funding and therefore a cost is charged.
What is OCR?
OCR stands for Oxford Cambridge and RSA, and
is a UK awarding body.
If the qualification is not exam based
then how I do achieve it?
Once you have developed your IT skills in your
selected modules, you may complete a computer based assignment,
which requires you to produce a range of documents using your newly
gained IT skills. Alternatively you may demonstrate your IT
skills through creating your own documents.