Digital Skills & IT

    Ascentis
    Vocational

    Specification: 603/4617/6

    The ASCENTIS Vocational Digital Skills & IT specification covers 18 topics with 20 learning objectives (603/4617/6). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    18

    Units

    20

    Learning Outcomes

    64

    Assessment Guidance

    71

    Key Skills

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Poor lighting or sound quality during capture.
    • •Over-editing or making sequences too long.
    • •Not checking playback compatibility.
    • •Assuming all search engine results are equally authoritative without verifying sources or cross-referencing.
    • •Confusing the web browser with a search engine and using only the search box for navigation instead of address bar.
    • •Neglecting to log out of accounts on shared devices or public networks, leaving personal data vulnerable.
    • •Using weak passwords like '123456' and reusing them across multiple accounts.
    • •Failing to recognise phishing emails or suspicious links, leading to credential compromise or malware infection.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Plan your shots and audio capture beforehand.
    • •Keep edits simple and purposeful.
    • •Test your final sequence on different devices.
    • •When demonstrating navigation, use a variety of methods (history, bookmarks, typing URL) to show competency.
    • •For the search task, document your search terms and explain why you chose certain sources over others to evidence evaluation skills.
    • •When communicating online, show both formal and informal contexts, and always proofread for spelling and grammar.
    • •For safety, provide screenshots of privacy settings adjusted, firewall status, and anti-virus checks as portfolio evidence.
    • •Reference specific legislation like GDPR when discussing data protection in online communication to demonstrate professional awareness.

    Qualification Units

    18 units

    How this qualification is graded

    Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.

    Pass

    Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.

    Merit

    Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.

    Distinction

    Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.

    Audio and video software

    This unit covers using audio/video hardware and software to capture sequences, editing sequences with software tools, and playing/presenting the final sequences.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Using the Internet

    This element equips communications specialists with essential internet skills, covering connection methods, effective web navigation, search techniques, and online communication tools. Emphasis is placed on applying safety and security practices to protect data and reputation in professional contexts.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Developing Online Digital Skills

    This unit introduces learners to the fundamental digital skills needed for everyday life, covering safe internet use, effective online navigation, and basic device maintenance. It emphasizes practical application in personal and community contexts, ensuring learners can confidently use digital tools for communication, information retrieval, and online transactions. Through hands-on activities, students develop competency in using ICT systems, managing digital information, and understanding key principles of online safety and security.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Developing Online Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes15 guidance points

    Digital Technology Fundamentals

    This subtopic introduces learners to fundamental digital technology skills required for everyday transactions. It covers setting up devices such as smartphones and computers, understanding basic functions, navigating the web, downloading apps, and performing simple maintenance to ensure smooth operation. The focus is on building confidence and independence in using technology for tasks like online shopping, banking, and communication.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Skills for Digital Transactions (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Transacting Digitally

    This subtopic equips learners with practical skills to safely and effectively engage in online transactions, covering interaction with marketplace and transactional services, basic online financial management, and essential safety practices. It develops confidence for everyday digital activities such as purchasing goods, managing money digitally, and recognising security threats.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Skills for Digital Transactions (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    ICT System Operation

    This subtopic focuses on the core components of a modern operating system, such as the desktop, file management, and system settings, and how to effectively operate them for communication tasks. Learners will gain practical skills in navigating the user interface, managing files, configuring hardware peripherals, and troubleshooting common issues to support efficient digital communication in a professional environment.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Computer Basics

    This subtopic introduces learners to the physical components of a computer system, such as the monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and how they are used to interact with digital devices. It also covers the fundamentals of an operating system, including its role in managing hardware and software, and provides practical guidance on launching and navigating a basic software application to complete simple tasks. Mastery of these skills is essential for developing digital literacy and independent use of technology in everyday life.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Working with ICT hardware and equipment

    This element covers the essential competencies for effectively planning and executing tasks involving ICT hardware and equipment under supervision. Learners will develop the ability to select appropriate tools, follow health and safety protocols, and minimise operational risks while handling devices such as computers, peripherals, and networking apparatus. Mastery of these skills is critical for ensuring reliable technical support and efficient workflow in a communications environment.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Digital Media

    This subtopic develops learners' ability to organise and manage digital media assets effectively. It covers essential skills for storing files in logical structures and sharing them using basic digital communication tools, preparing learners for collaborative tasks in education and the workplace.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Digital Music

    This subtopic covers the fundamental skills needed to access and enjoy digital music, using both dedicated hardware devices and software applications. Learners will demonstrate competence in basic playback controls and effective organization of music files, which are essential for personal and vocational digital literacy. Practical application includes creating and managing a personal music library on various platforms.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Presentation Software

    This subtopic focuses on developing practical skills in presentation software, enabling learners to effectively input and manipulate textual and multimedia content within slides. It covers the use of software tools to create logically structured, well-edited, and professionally formatted slide sequences, culminating in the preparation of a slideshow ready for delivery. Mastery of these skills is essential for clear and impactful communication in business and academic settings.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Word Processing Software

    This subtopic focuses on developing proficiency in using word processing software to create, edit, and format professional documents. Learners will accurately enter and combine text with other elements, manipulate layout and structure, and apply formatting tools to meet specified requirements, mirroring real-world administrative and communication tasks.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Digital Photography

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamentals of digital photography, including capturing images using a digital device such as a smartphone, tablet, or camera, and then using software to edit, enhance, and organise these photographs effectively. Practical application involves creating a simple portfolio of edited images for personal or professional use, demonstrating basic technical skills and creativity.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Interpersonal and written communication

    This element develops the core interpersonal and written communication skills essential for IT and communications roles. Learners practise sending and receiving familiar information accurately in routine interactions, and producing clear, structured written documents. These competencies underpin effective teamwork, client support, and professional correspondence in digital workplaces.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Online Basics

    This subtopic provides foundational skills for navigating online IT systems, including logging in, managing settings, searching for and evaluating internet-based information, and using email to communicate effectively. Mastery of these basics is crucial for personal, educational, and vocational digital literacy.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    3 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health and Safety in ICT

    This subtopic provides learners with the knowledge and practical skills to identify and manage health and safety risks associated with using ICT equipment. It emphasises compliance with legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act and Display Screen Equipment Regulations, focusing on ergonomic workstation setup, electrical safety, manual handling, and hazard reporting. The goal is to enable communications specialists to maintain a safe, productive working environment and minimise common ICT-related injuries like repetitive strain injury and eye strain.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Social Networking

    This subtopic explores the fundamental concepts of social networking, focusing on its definition, common platforms, and the balance between its advantages (such as staying connected) and potential dangers (like privacy issues). Learners will gain practical skills in setting up a profile safely, managing privacy settings, and interacting with others using messages and posts. The aim is to build confidence in using social media responsibly for personal and community engagement.

    Ascentis Entry Level Award in Digital Skills (Entry 3)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Develop own effectiveness and professionalism

    This element focuses on equipping learners with the self-management and interpersonal skills essential for IT communications roles. It covers strategies for personal development, teamworking towards defined IT objectives, and adherence to professional standards and legislation such as the GDPR and Computer Misuse Act. Practical application involves creating personal development plans, contributing effectively in team projects, and applying legal and ethical best practices in real-world IT scenarios.

    Ascentis Level 2 Diploma In IT Skills for Communications Specialists

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

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    Digital Skills & IT Ascentis Vocational Topics & Revision