Developing Computer Skills — Open Awards Essential Digital Skills Digital Skills & IT Revision

    This unit introduces learners to foundational digital skills at Entry Level 3, enabling them to operate ICT devices, connect to the internet, browse and se

    Topic Synopsis

    This unit introduces learners to foundational digital skills at Entry Level 3, enabling them to operate ICT devices, connect to the internet, browse and search the web safely, compose emails, and troubleshoot basic issues. It emphasizes practical, real-world application of technology to meet personal and vocational needs, building confidence and digital literacy essential for independent living and future employment.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Developing Computer Skills

    OPEN AWARDS
    vocational

    This unit introduces learners to foundational digital skills at Entry Level 3, enabling them to operate ICT devices, connect to the internet, browse and search the web safely, compose emails, and troubleshoot basic issues. It emphasizes practical, real-world application of technology to meet personal and vocational needs, building confidence and digital literacy essential for independent living and future employment.

    2
    Learning Outcomes
    10
    Assessment Guidance
    13
    Key Skills
    2
    Key Terms
    16
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    Open Awards Entry Level Certificate in IT User Skills (Entry 3) (RQF)
    Open Awards Entry Level Award in IT User Skills (Entry 3) (RQF)

    Topic Overview

    The Open Awards Entry Level Certificate in IT User Skills (Entry 3) (RQF) is a foundational qualification designed to introduce you to the essential digital skills needed in today's world. It covers practical tasks like using a computer, creating documents, sending emails, and staying safe online. This qualification is perfect if you're starting your journey in IT or need to build confidence with everyday technology.

    Throughout the course, you'll learn how to navigate a computer's operating system, use word processing software to create simple documents, and manage files and folders. You'll also explore how to communicate effectively via email and understand the basics of internet safety. These skills are not just for exams—they're directly applicable to school, work, and daily life.

    This certificate is part of the wider Digital Skills & IT curriculum and provides a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications, such as Level 1 IT User Skills. It's recognised by employers and educators, showing that you have the fundamental digital literacy needed in almost any job or further study. By the end, you'll be able to perform basic IT tasks independently and responsibly.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →File Management: Understanding how to create, save, open, and organise files and folders on a computer, including using appropriate file names and locations.
    • →Word Processing: Using software like Microsoft Word or Google Docs to create, edit, and format simple documents (e.g., changing font size, adding bullet points, and inserting images).
    • →Email Communication: Sending, receiving, and replying to emails, including attaching files and using a subject line correctly.
    • →Online Safety: Recognising common online risks (e.g., phishing, malware) and knowing how to protect personal information, create strong passwords, and log out securely.
    • →Basic Computer Navigation: Turning on/off a computer, using a mouse and keyboard, opening applications, and using the internet browser to find information.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • 1. Know how to interact with and use ICT devices in order to meet given needs2. Know how to connect to the internet3. Use browser software to navigate web pages4. Use browser tools to search for information5.Know how to work safely and securely when working online6. Know how to compose and send an email7.Know how to respond to ICT problems
    • 1. Know how to interact with and use ICT devices in order to meet given needs2. Know how to connect to the internet3. Use browser software to navigate web pages4. Use browser tools to search for information5.Know how to work safely and securely when working online6. Know how to compose and send an email7.Know how to respond to ICT problems

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to power on, log into, and navigate the desktop or home screen of a given ICT device, using appropriate peripherals (mouse, keyboard, touchscreen) to meet a specified task.
    • Award credit for correctly connecting to a Wi-Fi network or wired internet connection, including inputting network credentials and verifying connectivity (e.g., via a web browser test).
    • Award credit for using browser navigation controls (back, forward, refresh, home, address bar) to move between web pages and for opening a new browser window/tab as required.
    • Award credit for performing a targeted web search using a search engine, including entering keywords, evaluating search results, and refining a search to locate specific information.
    • Award credit for explaining or demonstrating safe and secure online practices, such as recognising secure websites (https, padlock), keeping passwords private, and identifying suspicious links or pop-ups.
    • Award credit for composing, addressing, and sending a basic email, including subject line, message body, and attachment if specified, and for checking the sent folder for confirmation.
    • Award credit for responding appropriately to a common ICT problem (e.g., no internet connection, frozen screen, website not loading) by describing or performing simple troubleshooting steps, such as checking cables, restarting, or seeking help.
    • Award credit for demonstrating correct startup and shutdown procedures for an ICT device (e.g., desktop, laptop, tablet).
    • Look for evidence of successfully using a pointing device and keyboard to interact with on-screen elements, such as opening an application.
    • Require clear evidence that the learner can establish an internet connection, whether via Wi-Fi or wired, and confirm connectivity status.
    • Assess the ability to launch browser software and navigate to a given web page using a URL in the address bar.
    • Check for correct use of browser navigation controls: back, forward, refresh, and home page.
    • Confirm the learner can perform a simple keyword search using a search engine and retrieve relevant results.
    • Verify that the learner identifies and avoids suspicious links or pop-ups, demonstrating online safety awareness.
    • Expect a composed and sent email, including a recipient address, subject line, and message body, with evidence of attachment handling if required.
    • Look for appropriate responses to common ICT problems, such as a frozen screen or inability to connect to the internet, including basic troubleshooting methods.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡In portfolio evidence, capture screenshots or photographs of each step when performing tasks, and annotate them clearly to show your understanding of the process.
    • 💡Practice regularly on different devices (laptop, tablet, smartphone) to become comfortable with variations in interface and keyboard shortcuts that may appear in assessment scenarios.
    • 💡When searching online, show you can refine results by using quotation marks, minus signs, or filters, and explain why you chose a particular website as reliable.
    • 💡For the email task, always double-check the recipient address, add a clear subject line, and proofread your message before sending; evidence your checking process.
    • 💡Familiarise yourself with basic troubleshooting steps (check power, cables, Wi-Fi symbol, restart) and prepare a simple flowchart or checklist to demonstrate systematic problem-solving.
    • 💡During assessments, verbalise or write down your safety reasoning: e.g., 'I won't click this link because the email is from an unknown sender' to show you understand online risks.
    • 💡When providing evidence, capture screenshots that clearly show the entire process from start to finish, including error messages if troubleshooting.
    • 💡Practice using different input methods (mouse, touchscreen, keyboard shortcuts) to demonstrate versatility with devices.
    • 💡Always narrate your actions or annotate screenshots to explain why you performed a particular step, linking it to the learning outcomes.
    • 💡For email tasks, double-check the recipient address before sending to avoid assessment penalties for misdirected messages.
    • 💡Tip 1: Practise using keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+C (copy) and Ctrl+V (paste). They save time and show the examiner you're efficient. In the exam, you'll be marked on completing tasks accurately, not just speed.
    • 💡Tip 2: When creating documents, always check the formatting requirements. For example, if the task says 'use Arial font, size 12', make sure you apply it exactly. Small details like this can earn you marks.
    • 💡Tip 3: For email tasks, always include a clear subject line and a polite greeting. Even if the task doesn't explicitly ask for it, these good practices demonstrate understanding of proper email etiquette.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Confusing the operating system with browser software, or not understanding the difference between hardware, software, and internet connections.
    • Typing URLs directly into a search engine box instead of the address bar, or misunderstanding the difference between the two.
    • Forgetting to check Wi-Fi is enabled or selecting the wrong network, leading to connectivity failures without attempting basic checks.
    • Clicking on advertisements or sponsored results in search engines without realising they are paid links, not the most relevant information.
    • Using the same simple password for all accounts or writing passwords on sticky notes, thinking it is safe because no one will see them.
    • Omitting email subjects, forgetting to attach files, or sending to incorrect recipients due to a lack of proofreading.
    • Panicking or giving up immediately when a device freezes, instead of trying simple fixes like pressing Ctrl+Alt+Del or waiting for a response.
    • Confusing the browser address bar with a search engine search box, leading to unsuccessful navigation.
    • Forgetting to check the URL or website security (padlock symbol) when entering personal information.
    • Clicking on pop-up ads or download buttons without verifying their legitimacy, increasing security risks.
    • Omitting the subject line or cc/bcc fields when sending emails, resulting in poor email etiquette.
    • Using capital letters or poor formatting in emails, unaware of the professional implications.
    • Attempting to resolve technical issues without logging out or restarting, often making the problem worse.
    • Misconception: 'You need to be good at maths to use a computer.' Correction: Basic IT skills don't require advanced maths; they focus on practical tasks like clicking, typing, and following simple instructions.
    • Misconception: 'Saving a file once is enough.' Correction: You should save your work regularly (every few minutes) to avoid losing changes if the computer crashes or freezes.
    • Misconception: 'If an email looks real, it's safe to open.' Correction: Phishing emails can look convincing. Always check the sender's address and avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •No formal prerequisites are required for this Entry Level qualification. However, basic familiarity with using a keyboard and mouse is helpful.
    • •If you have completed any introductory digital skills courses (e.g., Essential Digital Skills), that will give you a head start, but it's not necessary.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • 1. Know how to interact with and use ICT devices in order to meet given needs2. Know how to connect to the internet3. Use browser software to navigate web pages4. Use browser tools to search for information5.Know how to work safely and securely when working online6. Know how to compose and send an email7.Know how to respond to ICT problems
    • 1. Know how to interact with and use ICT devices in order to meet given needs2. Know how to connect to the internet3. Use browser software to navigate web pages4. Use browser tools to search for information5.Know how to work safely and securely when working online6. Know how to compose and send an email7.Know how to respond to ICT problems

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