ECDLA - The European Computer Advanced Driving Licence

What is the ECDLA?

The ECDLA goes beyond the computer skills benchmark of the ECDL and tests an individual's competence at a much higher level with particular computer applications. It is modular and a certificate is awarded for successfully passing the test for each module. The ECDLA is currently available in the University for the Word Processing, Spreadsheet, Database and Presentation modules.

Who is it for?

ECDL Advanced is for the computing 'power user', who wishes to demonstrate their detailed knowledge and in-depth understanding in particular computer applications.

Aim of the ECDL

To recognise advanced levels of I.T. ability throughout the University, to reduce reliance on I.T. support and to improve the productivity of staff using PCs.

Word Processing Module

Word Processing applications have evolved considerably further than the features offered by the humble typewriter. While today's word processor still fulfills this role, tools such as macros, autotext and drop down fields can significantly reduce the effort and time required in a document's production. ECDL Advanced - Word Processing recognises that knowledge of these tools can improve ease of use as well as the effectiveness of the user. ECDL Advanced Word Processing is for the individual who uses a word processing application to prepare reports, news letters and forms, and who wishes to prove that their level of skill is beyond the basic user.

Spreadsheets Module

Spreadsheets have become pervasive and vital tools that are used by many. Some people use the basic functions of spreadsheets, others use it as a tool to manipulate and analyse data. ECDL Advanced - Spreadsheets is designed to distinguish those users that can realise the full potential of the spreadsheet tool from those who can only use the basic functions. ECDL Advanced Spreadsheets is for the individual who manipulates and analyses data and subsequently prepares reports, and wishes to prove that their level of skill is beyond the basic user

Database Module

Databases have developed from a simple paper-based system to a dynamic tool that not only creates, but can also implement, extract and report on the data within the database. ECDL Advanced Database is for the individual who regularly uses a database to organize, view and extract data and subsequently prepare reports, and wishes to prove that their level of skill is beyond the basic user

Presentation Module

Presentation tools are an integral part of communication in today's society. ECDL Advanced - Presentations is an important development tool that can provide assistance in the most demanding of climates through the understanding of the audience, the presentation layout, the use of macros and the management of the presentation, as well as the regular use of basic presentation functions. ECDL Advanced - Presentations is for the individual who uses presentation skills on a regular basis to produce outputs using advanced formatting and layout techniques, and wishes to prove that their level of skill is beyond that of a basic user

ECDLA Tests

Testing for the ECDLA will be carried out in the I.T. Training room on level 7 of the Central Services Building. Each test will involve working on real documents and will last for one hour.

How do I register for the ECDL Advanced?

To express your interest in the ECDLA staff programme at the University, please contact Liz Cussans (2955) or Ruth Pearson (2955) or i.t.training@hud.ac.uk, Computing & Library Services, for a prospectus pack containing further details and an application form.

Registered candidates
On receipt of a completed agreement form candidates are registered on the ECDLA programme and issued with a registration id. The names of registered candidates are added to the ECDLA Candidates mailing list which is one of the mechanisms used to inform candidates of ECDL events. We also use Blackboard to support and assist candidates studying for the ECDL.