Using the Internet — Skills and Education Group Awards Vocationally-Related Qualification Digital Skills & IT Revision

    This element covers the essential skills for connecting to the internet and using browser software to access, search, and communicate information online. L

    Topic Synopsis

    This element covers the essential skills for connecting to the internet and using browser software to access, search, and communicate information online. Learners will develop practical abilities in web navigation and effective use of search engines, while understanding fundamental safety and security practices to protect themselves and their data in the digital environment.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Using the Internet

    SKILLS AND EDUCATION GROUP AWARDS
    vocational

    This subtopic equips learners with essential internet skills, from establishing a connection and navigating web pages to conducting effective searches and communicating online. It emphasizes the practical application of browser tools and the critical importance of adhering to safety and security practices to protect personal information and devices.

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

    Assessment criteria

    SEG Awards Certa Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ITQ)
    SEG Awards Certa Level 1 Certificate in IT User Skills (ITQ)

    Topic Overview

    The SEG Awards Certa Level 1 Certificate in IT User Skills (ITQ) is a foundational qualification designed to equip students with essential digital skills for the modern workplace. This course covers a broad range of IT applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, and safe internet use. It is ideal for learners who are new to IT or wish to formalise their existing skills, providing a stepping stone to further study or employment.

    This qualification is vocationally relevant, meaning it focuses on practical, real-world tasks rather than abstract theory. Students learn how to create professional documents, manage data effectively, and communicate information clearly using digital tools. The course also emphasises digital safety, ensuring students understand how to protect themselves and their data online. By the end of the certificate, learners will be confident in using common software packages and ready to apply these skills in academic or professional settings.

    The ITQ certificate fits within the broader Digital Skills & IT curriculum by building a strong foundation in IT user skills. It aligns with national standards for digital literacy and is recognised by employers and educational institutions. Successful completion can lead to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 2 Certificate in IT User Skills, or direct entry into roles that require basic IT proficiency.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Word Processing: Creating, formatting, and editing documents using features like fonts, tables, and bullet points. Students must know how to save files in different formats (e.g., .docx, .pdf).
    • →Spreadsheets: Using formulas (SUM, AVERAGE), cell references, and charts to organise and analyse numerical data. Understanding relative vs absolute cell references is crucial.
    • →Databases: Designing simple tables, queries, and reports to store and retrieve information. Key skills include sorting, filtering, and using primary keys.
    • →Presentation Software: Creating slides with text, images, and transitions. Students should know how to apply consistent themes and present information clearly.
    • →Digital Safety: Recognising phishing emails, creating strong passwords, and understanding the importance of data backup and antivirus software.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • INTE:1 Connect to the Internet, INTE:2 Use browser software to navigate webpages, INTE:3 Use browser tools to search for information from the Internet and the world-wide web or an intranet, INTE:4 Use browser software to communicate information online, INTE:5 Follow and understand the need for safety and security practices when working online
    • Connect to the Internet, Use browser software to navigate webpages effectively, Use browser tools to search for information from the Internet, Use browser software to communicate information online, Understand the need for safety and security practices when working online

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to connect to the internet using appropriate hardware and software, such as selecting a Wi-Fi network and entering credentials.
    • Award credit for accurately using browser navigation features, including entering URLs, using hyperlinks, and employing back/forward buttons to move between pages.
    • Award credit for effectively using search engines to find information, including constructing relevant keyword queries and evaluating search results for credibility.
    • Award credit for using browser-based communication tools, such as webmail or online forms, to send and receive information appropriately.
    • Award credit for identifying and applying key online safety practices, such as recognising secure websites (HTTPS), creating strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious links or downloads.
    • Award credit for correctly demonstrating the ability to establish an internet connection and open a browser application.
    • Look for evidence of effective web navigation, including using hyperlinks, back/forward buttons, and entering URLs accurately.
    • Confirm that the learner can perform a search using a search engine, applying basic search operators or filters to refine results.
    • Assess the learner's ability to compose and send an email, fill in an online form, or post a comment, demonstrating appropriate communication etiquette.
    • Check that the learner identifies key safety practices such as using strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and recognizing secure websites (HTTPS).

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡When demonstrating internet connection, clearly show the steps of connecting to a network, including selecting the correct network and entering the password if required.
    • 💡Always verify the security of a website before performing any task involving personal data, and explain why it's safe.
    • 💡Use specific, relevant keywords when searching and take note of the number and relevance of results.
    • 💡During communication tasks, ensure you use appropriate language and proofread before sending.
    • 💡Prepare a checklist of safety practices to reference during practical assessments, such as password management and recognising phishing attempts.
    • 💡When demonstrating navigation, clearly show the entire process, including how you correct mistakes, as assessors value troubleshooting skills.
    • 💡For the search task, document your search terms and why you chose certain results to showcase your evaluative skills.
    • 💡In communication tasks, pay attention to tone and clarity; always proofread your message before sending.
    • 💡During safety questions, provide specific examples of risks and corresponding preventive measures, not just general statements.
    • 💡Practice using different browser tools (bookmarks, history, incognito mode) so you can confidently demonstrate them under observation.
    • 💡Tip 1: Read each question carefully and identify the command word (e.g., 'create', 'format', 'explain'). This tells you exactly what to do. For example, 'create a spreadsheet' means you must build it from scratch, not just describe it.
    • 💡Tip 2: In practical tasks, save your work frequently and check file names and formats as specified in the question. Examiners deduct marks for incorrect file names or formats.
    • 💡Tip 3: For theory questions, use specific examples from the software you have used. Instead of saying 'I used a formula', say 'I used the SUM formula to calculate total sales in cell B10'.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Entering search terms directly into the address bar instead of using a search engine, leading to navigation errors.
    • Failing to check the URL for accuracy or security indicators (e.g., padlock icon) before entering sensitive information.
    • Using the same weak password across multiple sites or sharing passwords with others.
    • Clicking on pop-ups or downloading attachments from unknown sources without considering security risks.
    • Accepting search results at face value without evaluating the source's credibility or date of information.
    • Confusing the browser's address bar with a search bar, leading to unsuccessful navigation.
    • Failing to evaluate the credibility of search results, such as trusting all sources equally without considering authority.
    • Forgetting to log out of accounts on shared computers, compromising security.
    • Using the same weak password across multiple sites, ignoring password strength recommendations.
    • Clicking on pop-up ads or links without verifying their safety, increasing malware risk.
    • Misconception: 'Saving a file once is enough.' Correction: Always save your work regularly (every 10-15 minutes) and keep backup copies on a cloud service or external drive to prevent data loss.
    • Misconception: 'Formulas in spreadsheets are too hard; I'll just use a calculator.' Correction: Formulas are essential for efficient data analysis. Start with simple ones like SUM and AVERAGE, and practice using cell references to automate calculations.
    • Misconception: 'I don't need to worry about digital safety because I'm careful.' Correction: Cyber threats can target anyone. Always use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid clicking suspicious links.

    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 open/close applications.
    • •Familiarity with the Windows or Mac operating system: navigating folders, saving files, and using the internet browser.
    • •No prior qualification is required, but confidence with everyday digital tasks (e.g., sending emails, browsing websites) is helpful.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • INTE:1 Connect to the Internet, INTE:2 Use browser software to navigate webpages, INTE:3 Use browser tools to search for information from the Internet and the world-wide web or an intranet, INTE:4 Use browser software to communicate information online, INTE:5 Follow and understand the need for safety and security practices when working online
    • Connect to the Internet, Use browser software to navigate webpages effectively, Use browser tools to search for information from the Internet, Use browser software to communicate information online, Understand the need for safety and security practices when working online

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