Finding, Selecting and Exchanging Information Using ICT
This subtopic introduces learners to fundamental skills in identifying and using ICT-based information sources, such as websites and digital documents. It covers practical tasks like searching for information online, entering and saving data accurately, and exchanging information via email or other digital communication tools. Mastery of these skills supports everyday digital literacy and forms a basis for independent ICT use in personal and vocational contexts.
Assessment criteria
Topic Overview
The Open Awards Entry Level Certificate in IT User Skills (Entry 1) (RQF) is a foundational qualification designed to introduce learners to the basic use of information technology. It covers essential digital skills such as using a computer, creating simple documents, and navigating the internet safely. This qualification is ideal for students who are new to IT or need to build confidence before progressing to higher levels.
This certificate is part of the wider Digital Skills & IT vocational pathway, providing a stepping stone to Entry Level 2 and Level 1 qualifications. It focuses on practical, real-world tasks like turning on a computer, using a mouse and keyboard, opening and saving files, and understanding basic online safety. By completing this course, students gain the fundamental skills needed for further study, employment, or everyday life in a digital world.
The qualification is assessed through a portfolio of evidence, meaning students demonstrate their skills by completing tasks rather than sitting formal exams. This makes it accessible and supportive for learners who may struggle with traditional testing. Topics include using IT systems, creating and editing simple documents, and communicating online safely. Each unit builds towards a recognised certificate that proves basic IT competence.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Basic computer operations: turning on/off, logging in, using a mouse and keyboard, and navigating the desktop.
- →File management: creating, opening, saving, and naming files and folders in a logical way.
- →Simple document creation: using a word processor to type text, change font size, and print a document.
- →Internet safety: understanding that personal information should not be shared online, and knowing how to recognise safe websites.
- →Using email: sending and receiving messages with a simple subject line and recipient address.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- Know ICT sources of information., Be able to locate information using ICT sources., Be able to use enter and save information., Be able to send and receive ICT based information.
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Award credit for correctly identifying at least two different ICT sources of information (e.g., website, search engine, digital document).
- Award credit for demonstrating the ability to open a web browser, navigate to a known website, and use a simple search query to locate information.
- Award credit for entering given information into a digital form or document with no more than minor typographical errors.
- Award credit for saving a digital file with an appropriate name in a specified location, as per tutor instructions.
- Award credit for composing, addressing and sending a simple email, and for opening and acknowledging receipt of an email received.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Practice using different ICT sources such as a library catalogue, a simple website, and a search engine so you are confident switching between them.
- 💡Always read instructions carefully—if asked to save a file with a specific name, ensure you use that exact name and note where the file is being saved.
- 💡When exchanging information, double-check recipient email addresses and use clear, simple subject lines; ask a tutor if you can send a practice email before assessment.
- 💡Take your time when entering information; it is better to be accurate than fast, as assessors will look for correctly copied text or data.
- 💡Tip 1: Always read the task instructions carefully. For example, if it says 'save as 'My Document'', make sure you use exactly that name, including capital letters and spaces.
- 💡Tip 2: Practise using the mouse to click, double-click, and drag. Many students lose marks because they accidentally open the wrong file or can't select text properly.
- 💡Tip 3: When creating a document, keep it simple. Use a clear font like Arial, size 12 or 14, and don't add unnecessary colours or images unless the task asks for them.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Confusing the web browser search bar with the website address bar, leading to failed searches.
- Entering information with spelling errors or inconsistent capitalisation, which affects accuracy of saved data.
- Forgetting to click 'save' or not checking the file location, resulting in lost work.
- Sending an email without a subject line or attachment when required, or not reviewing the recipient address before sending.
- Accidentally clicking on sponsored advertisements instead of organic search results, leading to irrelevant information.
- Misconception: 'You need to be good at typing to use a computer.' Correction: Entry 1 focuses on basic mouse and keyboard skills, not speed. Accuracy and confidence are more important than speed.
- Misconception: 'Saving a file means it's automatically backed up.' Correction: Saving only stores the file on the current device. Students should learn to save to a specific location (e.g., Documents folder) and understand that backups are separate.
- Misconception: 'If a website looks professional, it's safe.' Correction: Appearance doesn't guarantee safety. Students must learn to check for padlock icons and avoid sharing personal details even on professional-looking sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for OPEN AWARDS Finding, Selecting and Exchanging Information Using ICT
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •No formal prerequisites are required for Entry 1, as it is designed for beginners. However, students should be able to follow simple instructions and have basic literacy skills to read on-screen text.
Coursework AI Review
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Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- Know ICT sources of information., Be able to locate information using ICT sources., Be able to use enter and save information., Be able to send and receive ICT based information.
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