Digital Skills & IT

    Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
    Vocational

    Specification: 601/5964/9

    The FUTURE-AWARDS-AND-QUALIFICATIONS-LTD Vocational Digital Skills & IT specification covers 33 topics with 104 learning objectives (601/5964/9). 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.

    33

    Units

    104

    Learning Outcomes

    222

    Assessment Guidance

    242

    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

    • •Assuming that only IT professionals need to be concerned with security risks, leading to complacency among end-users.
    • •Relying solely on antivirus software and ignoring other crucial practices like regular software updates and secure password creation.
    • •Using weak or predictable passwords, or reusing the same password across multiple accounts.
    • •Assuming that all information found via a search engine is accurate and reliable without verifying the source or date.
    • •Using weak or easily guessable passwords and failing to differentiate between secure and unsecure websites (e.g., not checking for HTTPS).
    • •Quoting information directly from websites without assessing copyright or intellectual property implications.
    • •Over-reliance on a single source of information without cross-referencing.
    • •Sending sensitive data over unencrypted channels or insecurely sharing login credentials.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •When asked to develop procedures, present them in a logical, numbered sequence that any user could follow without prior technical knowledge.
    • •Relate all security measures back to real-life working scenarios—mention specific threats (e.g., phishing emails, malware) and how your actions counter them.
    • •Ensure you can distinguish between monitoring (ongoing checks) and minimising (preventative actions) risks, as questions may target either aspect.
    • •Always keep a log of the sources you used, noting URLs, dates accessed, and a brief evaluation of credibility to support your assessment evidence.
    • •Use screenshots to evidence each stage of your search and communication process, annotating them to explain your thinking.
    • •When evaluating information, use the CRAAP test (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, Purpose) to provide structured, marks-worthy evaluation.
    • •Practice using at least two different communication platforms (e.g., Outlook and Zoom) to confidently demonstrate competence across tools.
    • •Remember that safe practice includes both technical (antivirus, firewalls) and behavioral (not clicking suspicious links) aspects — show evidence of both.

    Qualification Units

    33 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.

    IT Security for Users

    This subtopic equips learners with the foundational knowledge and skills to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks to IT systems and data in everyday use. It covers practical procedures such as password management, software updates, and safe internet practices, enabling learners to monitor threats and develop straightforward security protocols to protect personal and organisational information.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    IT Communication Fundamentals

    This element introduces learners to fundamental IT communication skills, focusing on the effective, responsible, and safe use of digital tools to locate, evaluate, and share information. It equips learners with the ability to critically assess online sources for relevance and reliability, while applying appropriate methods to communicate clearly and securely in personal and professional contexts.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Desktop Publishing Software

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamentals of desktop publishing, covering the selection of appropriate design templates and layout structures for various publications, the integration of textual and graphical elements to create cohesive documents, and the application of software tools to refine formatting and visual appearance. Practical skills include using industry-standard software to produce professional-quality materials such as flyers, newsletters, and reports.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    6 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Multimedia Software

    This element focuses on the practical application of multimedia software to create digital products such as presentations, videos, and interactive content. Learners must demonstrate the ability to plan content structure, import and combine various media assets, and use editing tools to format outputs to a given specification. The culmination is playing and presenting the final multimedia outcome, ensuring it meets the intended purpose and audience needs.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Using the Internet

    This element equips learners with fundamental internet competencies, from establishing and verifying appropriate network connections to proficiently using browser navigation, search tools, and online communication platforms. A strong emphasis is placed on applying safety and security practices, ensuring learners can operate effectively while safeguarding personal data and devices in real-world scenarios.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes20 guidance points2 criteria

    Understanding the Potential of IT

    This element explores the pervasive role of IT in modern contexts, examining how digital technologies reshape business models, industry operations, and societal norms. Learners critically evaluate the transformative impact of the Internet and mobile communications, analyse IT integration within organisations, and assess the implications of deploying new systems alongside essential security measures.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Computerised Accounting Software

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental operations of computerised accounting software, focusing on the accurate entry and editing of financial data, processing routine business transactions, and generating essential accounting documents and reports. Mastery of these skills ensures efficiency and compliance in real-world financial record-keeping environments.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes10 guidance points2 criteria

    Using Collaborative Technologies

    This subtopic focuses on the practical skills needed to safely and effectively use collaborative technologies such as shared workspaces, video conferencing, and cloud-based document editing. Learners must demonstrate competence in configuring devices, maintaining security protocols, and actively contributing to team tasks using these tools, aligning with real-world workplace expectations.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes11 guidance points2 criteria

    Spreadsheet Software

    This subtopic covers the foundational spreadsheet skills required to input, modify, and structure numerical and textual data effectively, enabling users to perform basic calculations and analysis using appropriate formulas and tools. These competencies are directly applied in real-world administrative tasks such as maintaining financial records, tracking inventories, and generating simple management reports, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in data handling.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Optimise IT System Performance

    This element equips learners with essential skills to maintain and enhance the performance of IT systems. It covers proactive hardware and software maintenance, efficient file and disk management, systematic troubleshooting of common errors, and customization of the working environment to boost productivity. Mastery of these tasks ensures reliable and efficient use of technology in personal and professional settings.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    7 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Using Mobile IT Devices

    This element focuses on equipping learners with the practical skills to effectively configure, operate, and maintain mobile IT devices in personal and professional contexts. Key competencies include customizing device settings to meet user needs, proficiently navigating and managing applications and files, ensuring secure and efficient data transfer between devices, and performing routine maintenance to sustain optimal device performance. Mastery of these skills is essential for enhancing digital productivity and adaptability in a mobile-centric landscape.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Audio Software

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of capturing, editing, and presenting audio using digital tools. It covers connecting and operating audio interfaces and microphones to record audio, applying basic editing techniques like trimming and normalization, and exporting audio files for playback on various devices. Mastery of these skills enables users to create professional-sounding podcasts, voiceovers, or music demos.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Database Software

    This subtopic equips learners with the foundational skills to manage structured data using database software, focusing on accurate data entry, editing, and organisation within tables. It also develops proficiency in using built-in tools to extract specific information through queries and generate formatted reports for practical business use. These competences are vital for administrative roles requiring efficient data handling and reporting.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes19 guidance points2 criteria

    Project Management Software

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of using project management software to plan, monitor, and communicate projects. Learners will develop practical skills in creating project files, defining task structures, allocating resources, and tracking progress against a timeline. These competencies are essential for supporting team-based digital projects in the workplace and ensuring that information is accurately recorded and reported to stakeholders.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    9 learning outcomes20 guidance points2 criteria

    Bespoke Software

    This element focuses on the proficient use of bespoke software applications tailored to specific organisational needs. Learners develop the skills to accurately input, systematically organise, and effectively combine diverse information types within such environments. It also encompasses advanced editing, processing, and formatting techniques to tailor outputs for different audiences, ensuring information is presented professionally and meets business requirements.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    9 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Internet Safety for IT users

    This element focuses on equipping learners with the knowledge to identify and mitigate online risks, ensuring they can protect both themselves and others in digital environments. It covers essential data security measures, such as encryption and secure password practices, alongside adherence to relevant legislation like GDPR and the Computer Misuse Act. Mastery of these topics ensures IT users operate responsibly and ethically in the workplace.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Developing Personal and Team Effectiveness Using IT

    This element focuses on leveraging IT tools and systems to enhance individual performance and professional growth, as well as to facilitate effective teamwork and collaborative goal achievement. Learners explore how software applications, digital platforms, and communication technologies can be used for self-assessment, skill development planning, and tracking personal progress, while also applying collaborative IT solutions to coordinate team activities, share information, and deliver agreed outcomes efficiently within a workplace context.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Imaging Software

    This subtopic focuses on the foundational skills for using imaging software in a professional context. Learners will develop the ability to source, import, and combine various image assets while applying industry-standard editing techniques. Mastery of these skills enables the creation of visually cohesive graphics suitable for print and digital media, meeting commercial quality standards.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Specialist Software

    This element focuses on the proficient use of specialist software applications to input, combine, and manage information. Learners are expected to create and modify data structures (e.g., databases, spreadsheets, document templates) to organise data efficiently, and to exploit advanced software functions for effective processing and presentation of information. Mastery of these skills is essential for roles requiring data management, reporting, and digital content creation.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Using a computer keyboard

    This element covers proficient keyboard use for data entry and software control. Learners must demonstrate touch-typing skills, accurate editing with modifier keys, and efficient navigation using keyboard shortcuts. Mastery ensures productivity in administrative and IT roles.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Video Software

    This element focuses on developing practical competence in using video hardware (e.g., cameras, capture cards) and software to record, edit, and output digital video sequences. Learners will gain hands-on skills in combining clips, applying transitions and effects, adjusting audio, and rendering final projects for various presentation formats, replicating real-world media production workflows.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Improving Productivity Using IT

    This element focuses on the strategic application of IT systems to enhance personal and team productivity. Learners will develop skills in selecting, evaluating, and optimising software and hardware to meet specific business or personal objectives. Practical application involves analysing workflows and implementing technology-driven improvements.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes13 guidance points2 criteria

    IT User Fundamentals

    This subtopic equips learners with essential skills to operate IT systems efficiently, including configuring software to meet diverse user needs, managing files and folders for secure information retrieval, and applying organisational safety and security protocols. It also covers routine system maintenance and systematic troubleshooting to resolve common hardware and software issues, ensuring reliable and secure computing in a workplace context.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Set Up an IT System

    This element covers the practical competencies required to safely assemble a personal computer system, including the selection and connection of peripheral hardware and storage media tailored to specific user requirements. Learners must also establish connectivity to a communication service, install and configure appropriate software, and verify the full operational functionality of the system and its network capabilities. Mastery involves not only technical assembly but also systematic testing and troubleshooting to ensure the IT system reliably meets the intended needs.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Data Management Software

    Data management software is essential for storing, organising, and manipulating structured information in databases and spreadsheets. Learners develop skills in accurate data entry, editing, and maintenance to ensure data integrity, as well as retrieving and presenting data through queries and reports tailored to specific business or personal requirements. This unit underpins efficient information handling in administrative and technical roles.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    6 learning outcomes19 guidance points2 criteria

    Personal Information Management Software

    This element focuses on the proficient use of personal information management (PIM) software such as Microsoft Outlook to manage professional schedules, tasks, and contacts. Learners will develop the ability to schedule and organise appointments, prioritise workload effectively, and maintain a structured address book, which are essential skills for enhancing productivity and communication in any occupational setting.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    IT Software Fundamentals

    This subtopic equips learners with essential skills in selecting appropriate software tools and effectively processing, formatting, and presenting information. It underpins the ability to solve typical workplace IT problems, such as creating professional documents, manipulating data, and designing audience-focused outputs using common productivity suites.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes19 guidance points2 criteria

    Using Email

    This subtopic covers essential e-mail skills for personal and professional communication, including composing, formatting, sending messages, and managing inboxes effectively. Learners apply these skills to send clear, well-structured emails, use CC/BCC fields appropriately, attach files, and organise incoming mail to maintain productivity and digital literacy.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Presentation Software

    This element focuses on developing fundamental skills in using presentation software to create and modify slideshows. Learners will practice entering and combining text with other media, structuring slide sequences logically, applying formatting for clarity, and preparing the final presentation for delivery, covering essential features like slide layout, transitions, and presenter tools.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    6 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Website Software

    This subtopic covers the complete process of web page creation, from initial planning and design through to structuring content with appropriate software tools and finally publishing to a live environment. Learners will develop practical skills in using industry-standard website software to produce functional, well-formatted pages for internet or intranet deployment, ensuring they understand the workflow from concept to publication.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    6 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Design Software

    This element introduces learners to fundamental design software functionalities, focusing on sourcing digital assets, integrating them into cohesive layouts, and applying basic editing techniques. It develops practical skills for creating simple visual communications, such as posters, flyers, or social media graphics, aligning with entry-level IT user competencies.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Word Processing Software

    This element focuses on developing foundational word processing skills, enabling learners to produce professional documents by accurately entering and manipulating text, applying appropriate formatting, and structuring layouts to meet specified requirements. Mastering these skills is essential for efficient communication and data presentation in any administrative or office environment.

    FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    11 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Drawing and Planning Software

    This element develops competence in using specialist software to create and modify technical drawings, layouts or plans. Learners will demonstrate the ability to import and organise multiple data sources, apply precise editing and formatting techniques, and produce professional outputs suitable for construction, engineering or design contexts. Mastery involves accurate scaling, layer management, and adherence to industry conventions.

    FAQ Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills (ITQ), FAQ Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

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    Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd Vocational Digital Skills & IT