What software do I need for the Open Awards Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills?

You will typically use Microsoft Office applications: Word for word processing, Excel for spreadsheets, Access for databases, and PowerPoint for presentations. Some centres may use alternative software like Google Workspace or LibreOffice, but the skills are transferable. Check with your tutor for specific requirements.

How is the Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills assessed?

The qualification is assessed through a portfolio of evidence, which includes practical tasks and written work. You will complete assignments that demonstrate your ability to use IT tools in real-world scenarios, such as creating a business report or a presentation. There are no formal exams, so consistent effort throughout the course is key.

Can I use this diploma to get a job?

Yes, this diploma is valued by employers for roles like administrative assistant, data entry clerk, or customer service representative. It proves you have the digital skills needed for many office-based jobs. You can also use it to progress to a Level 3 qualification or an apprenticeship in IT.

What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 IT User Skills?

Level 1 covers basic IT skills like using a mouse, typing, and simple file management. Level 2 goes deeper, requiring you to use advanced features of software, such as creating formulas in spreadsheets, designing databases, and producing professional documents. Level 2 is equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 or above.

How long does it take to complete the Level 2 Diploma?

The course typically takes one academic year if studied full-time, or longer if part-time. The guided learning hours are around 300-400, but you will also need to spend time on independent study and completing assignments. Your centre will provide a schedule.

Do I need to buy Microsoft Office for this course?

Most colleges and training centres provide access to Microsoft Office through their computer labs or student licenses. If you want to practice at home, you can use the free web versions of Office 365 or consider a student subscription. Alternatively, free software like LibreOffice can be used, but check with your tutor first.

Video Software

OPEN AWARDS

vocational

This element equips learners with foundational skills in using video software and hardware to capture raw footage, edit it into coherent sequences using trimming, transitions, and effects, and then output and present the final video effectively. It forms a key part of digital literacy, applicable to media production, marketing, and personal content creation.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

Open Awards Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills (RQF)

Topic Overview

The Open Awards Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills (RQF) is a comprehensive qualification designed to equip students with the practical IT skills needed for the modern workplace. It covers a wide range of digital tools and techniques, from word processing and spreadsheets to databases and presentation software. This diploma is ideal for those looking to build a solid foundation in IT user skills, whether for further study or direct entry into employment.

Throughout this qualification, you will develop proficiency in using common software applications, understanding file management, and applying safe and responsible practices online. The course is structured around real-world tasks, ensuring that you can confidently handle typical office and administrative duties. By the end, you will be able to create professional documents, analyse data, manage information, and communicate effectively using digital tools.

This diploma fits into the broader Digital Skills & IT category as a stepping stone to more advanced qualifications, such as Level 3 IT courses or apprenticeships. It is recognised by employers and educational institutions, making it a valuable addition to your CV. The skills you gain are transferable across industries, from business and finance to healthcare and education, reflecting the increasing demand for digital literacy in all sectors.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→File Management: Understanding how to organise, save, and retrieve files efficiently using folders and appropriate naming conventions.
→Word Processing: Creating, formatting, and editing documents using features like tables, images, headers/footers, and mail merge.
→Spreadsheets: Using formulas, functions (e.g., SUM, AVERAGE), charts, and data sorting/filtering to analyse and present numerical data.
→Databases: Designing simple databases, entering data, and using queries to extract specific information based on criteria.
→Presentation Software: Creating engaging slides with animations, transitions, and multimedia elements to communicate ideas effectively.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

1. Use video hardware and software to capture sequences2 Use video software tools and techniques to combine and edit sequences3 Play and present video sequences

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for demonstrating correct connection and configuration of video capture hardware (e.g., camera, microphone) and software settings (resolution, frame rate).
Look for evidence of using basic editing tools: importing clips, arranging on timeline, trimming, splitting, and applying transitions between sequences.
Assess ability to combine multiple sequences using techniques like overdubbing, picture-in-picture, or split-screen, ensuring alignment and coherence.
Check that the final video is exported in an appropriate format and played back smoothly, with crisp visuals and synchronised audio, and that the learner can present it via a suitable medium (e.g., projector, online platform).

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Plan your video sequence with a simple storyboard before you start editing; this saves time and improves structure.
💡During capture, always monitor audio levels via headphones and do a short test recording to confirm video and sound quality.
💡Familiarise yourself with keyboard shortcuts for common editing tasks (cut, paste, undo) to work more efficiently.
💡When presenting, prepare a brief introduction explaining the intended purpose and audience of your video; this demonstrates reflective practice.
💡Keep evidence logs or screenshots of key editing stages, as assessors look for process documentation alongside final outputs.
💡Always read the task instructions carefully. Many students lose marks by missing specific requirements, such as applying a particular font size or including a chart title. Underline key words in the question.
💡Practice using keyboard shortcuts (e.g., Ctrl+C for copy, Ctrl+V for paste) to save time during assessments. This allows you to focus on the more complex tasks.
💡For spreadsheet tasks, double-check your formulas by testing them with simple numbers. A small error in a formula can lead to incorrect results across the entire dataset.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Capturing footage with incorrect settings (e.g., low resolution, wrong aspect ratio) leading to blurry or distorted output.
Forgetting to save project files regularly, resulting in data loss if software crashes during editing.
Overusing transitions or effects, making the video unprofessional and distracting; learners often confuse ‘more’ with ‘better’.
Neglecting to check audio levels and synchronisation; mismatches between audio and video tracks are a frequent oversight.
Exporting without considering the final playback platform, resulting in incompatible file types or excessive file sizes.
Misconception: 'IT skills are just about knowing how to use a computer.' Correction: While basic computer use is part of it, this diploma focuses on specific software applications and their advanced features, such as using formulas in spreadsheets or creating relationships in databases.
Misconception: 'You don't need to learn file management because files save automatically.' Correction: Automatic saves are not always reliable, and proper file management (naming, organising folders, backups) is crucial for finding work later and preventing data loss.
Misconception: 'All spreadsheet formulas are the same.' Correction: Different formulas serve different purposes; for example, SUM adds values, while VLOOKUP searches for data. Understanding when to use each is key to accurate analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•Basic computer literacy: ability to turn on a computer, use a mouse and keyboard, and navigate the desktop.
•Understanding of common file types (e.g., .docx, .xlsx, .pptx) and how to open/save files.
•Familiarity with the internet and web browsers for research and online safety basics.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

1. Use video hardware and software to capture sequences2 Use video software tools and techniques to combine and edit sequences3 Play and present video sequences

Ready to learn?

AI-powered learning tailored to this unit

Video Software

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to learn?

Related Topics in OPEN AWARDS vocational Digital Skills & IT

Audio Software

Bespoke Software

Computerised Accounting Software

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Topic Synopsis

Key Concepts & Core Principles

Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

Examiner Marking Points

Video Software

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What software do I need for the Open Awards Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills?

How is the Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills assessed?

Can I use this diploma to get a job?

What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 IT User Skills?

How long does it take to complete the Level 2 Diploma?

Do I need to buy Microsoft Office for this course?

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to learn?

Related Topics in OPEN AWARDS vocational Digital Skills & IT

Audio Software

Bespoke Software

Computerised Accounting Software

Data Management Software