Two important recent developments have been announced regarding the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL). One concerns the recognition of the certificates as part of the local and European qualifications framework and the other is an updated syllabus for the advanced certificate, ECDL Malta announced.
Both the ECDL Core and ECDL Advanced certificates, offered by ECDL Malta and awarded by the ECDL Foundation, have now been mapped with the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning (EQF) and the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF).
The certificate awarded on successful completion of the seven ECDL Core Modules is referenced to level three of the MQF and the EQF. This certificate is comparable to a pass in one SEC subject.
The Expert certificate awarded on successful completion of the four Advanced ECDL Modules is referenced to level four of the same two frameworks. This certificate is comparable to a pass in one Advanced Level subject.
For both certificates the MQF determines the exit points of qualifications while the entry requirements to programmes of study remain at the discretion of education and training providers.
The other major development announced is the roll out of the ECDL Advanced Syllabus 2.0, an update over the previous version 1.0. The new syllabus lists the skills and knowledge that must be acquired for a candidate to become certified in one or more of the Advanced modules, namely: word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentation.
ECDL Advanced Syllabus 2.0 was developed to ensure that the programme continues to be relevant to ongoing advances in technologies and current practices of power users of key computer applications.
The main principles underlying the revision of the syllabus were the need to accommodate changes in the usage of applications in today’s fast developing ICT world, to reflect the typical behaviour of power users in this domain, and to ensure the seamless integration with the recently revised ECDL Syllabus 5.0.
The new syllabus caters for recent application releases by referring to terminology used by the leading vendors (e.g. pivot table/datapilot in ECDL Advanced word processing).
In addition, the syllabus introduces new concepts and enhanced functionality (e.g. use of XML in databases) as well as skills that enhance productivity such as categories relating to using hyperlinks, linking to or embedding files.
Collaboration is another key concept represented with items relating to tracking changes, comparing and merging, and document protection.
Database query skills have been expanded through the introduction of advanced wildcards, and database output improvements through the introduction of subreports. Within the presentation module, skills associated with slide show control are now introduced as well as skills associated with improving presentation outputs, such as formatting skills for graphical objects, charts and diagrams.
As from July 1, 2010 all testing for ECDL Advanced is based on Syllabus 2.0 and for the first time in Malta this is being done using automated testing software in all approved test centres.
ECDL was launched in Malta in 2000 and thousands of Maltese have obtained the Core certificate which is now required for most knowledge-based positions in both the Public Administration and private industry.
ECDL Malta is responsible for operating the ECDL certification programmes on behalf of the ECDL Foundation, which is the certifying authority of the world’s leading end-user computer skills certification programme. ECDL Malta may be contacted via e-mail on info@ecdl.com.mt or phone number 21667706.
www.ecdl.com.mt