What is the difference between a web browser and a search engine?

A web browser is a software application used to access websites, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge. A search engine is a website within a browser that helps you find information on the internet, like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. You use a browser to open a search engine, then type in keywords to find web pages.

How do I know if a website is safe to use?

Look for a padlock icon in the address bar and ensure the URL starts with 'https://' (the 's' stands for secure). Avoid clicking on pop-up ads or links from unknown sources. Also, check for contact information and a privacy policy on the site. If something feels off, trust your instincts and leave the site.

What should I do if I receive a suspicious email?

Do not click on any links or download attachments in the email. Check the sender's email address carefully – it may look similar to a legitimate one but have slight differences. Report the email as spam or phishing to your email provider, and delete it. If you're unsure, contact the organisation directly using a known phone number or website.

How do I create a strong password?

Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (like !, @, #). Make it at least 8 characters long and avoid using obvious words like 'password' or personal information like your name or birthdate. Consider using a passphrase, such as 'MyD0g!sFluffy2024', which is easier to remember but hard to guess.

What is the best way to save a file from the internet?

Right-click on the file link or image and select 'Save link as' or 'Save image as'. Choose a location on your computer, such as the Desktop or Documents folder, and give the file a meaningful name. Make sure you know the file type (e.g., .pdf, .jpg) so you can open it later with the correct program.

How do I attach a file to an email?

When composing a new email, look for a paperclip icon or an 'Attach' button. Click it, then browse your computer to find the file you want to send. Select the file and click 'Open' or 'Attach'. The file will appear as an attachment in your email. Remember to keep file sizes small (under 10MB) to ensure successful delivery.

Online Basics

OPEN COLLEGE NETWORK WEST MIDLANDS

vocational

This unit introduces learners to the fundamental skills required for participating in the digital world. It focuses on safely using an online IT system, retrieving information from the internet through basic searches, and communicating via email. The content is designed to build confidence in navigating essential online tasks, providing a foundation for further digital literacy and employability skills.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

Open College Network West Midlands Entry Level Award in Online Basics (ITQ) (Entry 3) (QCF)

Topic Overview

The Open College Network West Midlands Entry Level Award in Online Basics (ITQ) (Entry 3) (QCF) introduces you to the fundamental skills needed to use the internet safely and effectively. This qualification covers how to access online information, communicate via email and social media, and manage digital files. It is designed for beginners who want to build confidence in using online tools for everyday tasks, such as searching for information, sending messages, and understanding basic online security.

In today's digital world, being able to navigate the internet is essential for work, study, and personal life. This award helps you develop practical skills that are directly applicable to real-world situations, like finding a job online, using email to contact employers, or shopping safely on websites. It also emphasises the importance of staying safe online, including recognising phishing scams and protecting personal data.

This qualification is part of the ITQ suite, which is recognised by employers and educational institutions across the UK. Achieving this award demonstrates that you have a solid foundation in online basics, which can lead to further study in digital skills or help you in the workplace. The course is assessed through practical tasks, so you will learn by doing, making it ideal for hands-on learners.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→Internet navigation: Using a web browser to access websites, use search engines effectively, and bookmark pages for future reference.
→Email communication: Sending, receiving, and organising emails, including attaching files and understanding email etiquette.
→Online safety: Recognising secure websites (https), creating strong passwords, and avoiding common online threats like phishing and malware.
→Digital file management: Saving, opening, and organising files from the internet, including understanding file types and using cloud storage.
→Social media basics: Using social networking sites responsibly, understanding privacy settings, and communicating appropriately online.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

Demonstrate the correct procedure for logging into an online IT system using provided credentials.
Perform a simple keyword search to locate specific information on the internet.
Compose and send an email message, including a recipient address, subject line, and body text.
Identify basic online safety practices, such as not sharing passwords.
Open and reply to an email, demonstrating understanding of basic inbox functions.
Use basic navigation tools (e.g., back button, hyperlinks) to move between web pages.

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for accurate entry of username and password, and successful system access.
Evidence of using a search engine to enter keywords and selecting a relevant result.
Email must contain a valid recipient, a clear subject, and a coherent message body.
Demonstrate awareness of not displaying personal information on shared screens.
Correct retrieval and opening of a received email, with an appropriate reply.

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Practice logging in and out multiple times to build speed and confidence before assessment.
💡Always double-check the recipient's email address before clicking 'Send' to avoid errors.
💡Use specific, simple keywords in internet searches rather than full questions for better results.
💡For coursework evidence, take screenshots or printouts of key steps (e.g., login screen, search results, sent email) to demonstrate process.
💡If unsure about an online action, stop and think about safety; it’s always acceptable to ask for help during learning.
💡When completing practical tasks, read each instruction carefully and follow it step by step. For example, if asked to 'save a file to the desktop', ensure you navigate to the correct location and use the exact filename specified.
💡Demonstrate your understanding of online safety by mentioning security features in your answers. For instance, when describing how to send an email, note that you should avoid including personal information like your full address.
💡Use the correct terminology in your responses. For example, refer to 'web browser' not 'the internet', and 'search engine' not 'Google' (as Google is just one example). This shows the examiner you understand the concepts.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Typing a website URL into the search engine's search box instead of the address bar.
Forgetting to include a subject line in an email or leaving it blank.
Confusing 'Reply' and 'Reply All', potentially sharing information with unintended recipients.
Using overly complex search terms or failing to check spelling within the search query.
Ignoring prompts to log out of a shared device, leaving accounts vulnerable.
Misconception: 'If a website looks professional, it must be safe.' Correction: Professional-looking websites can still be fraudulent. Always check for the padlock icon in the address bar and verify the URL before entering personal information.
Misconception: 'I don't need to log out of my accounts if I'm using my own device.' Correction: Even on personal devices, logging out prevents unauthorised access if your device is lost or stolen. Always log out, especially on shared or public computers.
Misconception: 'All information on the internet is true.' Correction: Anyone can publish online, so you must evaluate sources critically. Check for author credentials, publication date, and cross-reference with reliable sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•Basic computer skills: Ability to turn on a computer, use a mouse and keyboard, and open and close programs.
•Familiarity with the Windows or Mac operating system: Understanding how to navigate the desktop, use the start menu, and manage windows.
•No prior internet experience is required, but a willingness to explore and learn is essential.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

System Login & Navigation
Internet Search Basics
Email Communication
Online Safety Foundations

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AI-powered learning tailored to this unit

Topic Synopsis

Key Concepts & Core Principles

Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

Examiner Marking Points

Online Basics

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a web browser and a search engine?

How do I know if a website is safe to use?

What should I do if I receive a suspicious email?

How do I create a strong password?

What is the best way to save a file from the internet?

How do I attach a file to an email?

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to learn?

Related Topics in OPEN COLLEGE NETWORK WEST MIDLANDS vocational Digital Skills & IT

Online Basics