Functional Skills Information Communication Technology (ICT) Level 2 (Including Home Exam)

Overview

Functional Skills ICT can help you develop the practical ICT skills you need to use technology in life, study and work. You’ll develop your ICT skills and learn how to use them in real-life situations.

By reaching Level 2, you will have the equivalent to a grade A* to C (9 to 4 in the new grading structure) at GCSE meaning you can demonstrate you have mastered everyday ICT. This course will guide you through all of the skills you need to prepare for your exam that you will take online from the comfort of your own home.

Our ICT course was written by qualified subject specialists who have years of experience in Further Education. We know that one size doesn’t fit all, so our online tools can develop a unique programme made just for you. This means that you’ll know your strengths and where you need to focus right from the start. Our courses have also been created to cater to all ways of learning. Whether you are a visual, auditory or kinaesthetic learner, you will be able to find content that helps you to learn in the way that you find most comfortable.

As part of your course you will also get free access to all our Level 1 ICT Functional Skills content as well. So if you need to refresh on any Level 1 areas we have you covered, you will automatically have access to everything you need.

Modules

Functional Skills ICT includes sections on:

• Fundamentals - this module covers some of the fundamental aspects of using a computer. You will look at managing files and folders, passwords and security, and how to deal with common IT issues.
• Using email software and the internet - this module teaches you how to use email software to send and receive emails, send attachments and organise your contacts in an address book. You will also look at ways of using the internet effectively and safely.
• Word processing - In this section of the course you will learn about the different features of word processing software, which can be used to create all kinds of text based documents. You will learn how to create engaging documents using images, tables and other formatting features.
• Spreadsheets - The module on spreadsheets is a key part of the ICT course. In this module you will learn how to use spreadsheets to record information, how to complete calculations to analyse your data in more detail and how to present your data using charts and graphs.
• Presentation Skills- Working through this module you will learn how to use a presentation software program to create a slideshow with text and images, and expanding at the higher level to also include the use of transitions and animations.
• Databases - This advanced module looks at the use of database software to record larger amounts of data and complete more detailed searches for specific information.

Requirements

Great news! There are no entry requirements for the course. All you need is access to a computer and an internet connection.

Before you take your exam, you need to have the following equipment:

• A good quality laptop 
• An internet connection that can support our virtual classroom technology (we recommend at least 3mbps)
• A basic calculator, there must be nothing stored in the memory, the invigilator will check this before the exam begins.
• A webcam (if your laptop does not have one) – this must be capable of producing at least a 480p quality video
• A pen or pencil
• Some paper

Assessment

You’ll be assessed throughout your learning by our online quizzes.

When you’re ready for your final assessment, Functional Skills ICT has one exam which covers all of the topics you’ll learn in realistic scenarios. This exam can be taken from the comfort of your own home by an online invigilated exam. All you need is your webcam enabled computer and a quiet private space where you will be undisturbed. The exam will be booked when you feel you are ready.

At the end of this course, after passing your exam, you’ll have gained a Functional Skills Level 2 qualification in ICT. Level 2 is equivalent to grades A* to C (4 to 9). If you are looking to brush up your day-to-day ICT skills for any reason, then this is the programme for you.

Qualifications

Open Awards

When you pass your exam you will be awarded the Open Awards Functional Skills Qualification in Information & Communication Technology (ICT) at Level 2 (Ofqual qualification code = 600/7272/6).

Open Awards are a UK-based Awarding Organisation approved by both Ofqual and as an Access Validating Agency by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). They provide a broad range of qualifications from Functional Skills, Vocational Training, Access to Higher Education Diplomas. They are committed to helping provide the highest quality learning experience to help transform lives.