What is the difference between Digital Functional Skills Level 1 and Level 2?

Level 1 covers basic digital skills for everyday life and work, such as using email, creating simple documents, and staying safe online. Level 2 builds on this with more complex tasks, like using advanced spreadsheet functions, creating presentations with multimedia, and evaluating online information critically. Level 2 is often required for higher education or certain jobs, while Level 1 is a good starting point for building confidence.

How is the Digital Functional Skills Level 1 exam structured?

The exam is a single, on-screen assessment that lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It includes practical tasks where you use software like word processors, spreadsheets, and email clients. You'll be asked to complete real-world scenarios, such as planning a budget or organising a trip. The exam tests both your knowledge and your ability to apply digital skills. You'll need to save files correctly and demonstrate safe online practices.

Do I need to know how to code for this qualification?

No, coding is not required for Digital Functional Skills Level 1. The qualification focuses on using common digital tools like word processors, spreadsheets, email, and web browsers. You will learn how to format documents, use basic formulas, send emails with attachments, and search the internet effectively. It's about practical, everyday digital skills, not programming.

What happens if I fail the exam? Can I retake it?

Yes, you can retake the exam if you don't pass. There is no limit on the number of retakes, but you may need to wait for the next available exam session. Your school or test centre can advise on retake dates and any additional support or revision materials. It's a good idea to review your feedback from the first attempt to focus on areas where you lost marks.

How can I practice for the Digital Functional Skills Level 1 exam?

You can practice by using sample papers and past exam tasks available on the Pearson website. Also, try to use digital tools in your daily life, such as creating a budget spreadsheet, writing a letter in Word, or sending emails with attachments. Focus on tasks like organising files into folders, using search engines effectively, and identifying safe websites. Many online tutorials and revision guides are also available.

Is this qualification recognised by employers and colleges?

Yes, the Pearson Edexcel Digital Functional Skills Qualification at Level 1 is widely recognised by employers and further education colleges in the UK. It demonstrates that you have the essential digital skills needed for many jobs and courses. Some employers may require Level 2, but Level 1 is a valuable first step and shows you are committed to developing your digital abilities.

Digital Functional Skills Qualifications Level 1

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The Pearson Edexcel Digital Functional Skills Qualification at Level 1 equips learners with essential digital competencies for everyday life and work. It focuses on using devices and handling information, creating and editing digital content, communicating effectively online, transacting securely, and being safe and responsible in digital environments. Learners gain practical skills to operate confidently in a digital society, from managing files to protecting personal data.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

Pearson Edexcel Digital Functional Skills Qualification at Level 1

Topic Overview

The Pearson Edexcel Digital Functional Skills Qualification at Level 1 is designed to equip learners with the essential digital skills needed for everyday life, further study, and employment. This qualification focuses on practical, real-world applications of digital technology, covering areas such as using devices, handling information, creating and editing digital content, communicating online, and staying safe in digital environments. It is a stepping stone for those who may not have prior formal digital qualifications but need to demonstrate competence in a digital world.

This qualification matters because digital skills are now fundamental to almost every aspect of modern life. From managing personal finances online to collaborating on work projects, the ability to use digital tools confidently and safely is crucial. The Level 1 qualification ensures students can perform basic digital tasks independently, such as sending emails, using spreadsheets, and evaluating online information. It also prepares students for the Level 2 qualification, which covers more advanced skills. For students aiming to progress in education or employment, this qualification provides a recognised benchmark of digital capability.

Within the wider subject of Digital Functional Skills, this Level 1 qualification sits as the foundational tier. It covers the core competencies outlined in the national standards, including using digital devices, creating and editing documents, managing files, and understanding online safety. The qualification is assessed through a single, on-screen exam that tests both knowledge and practical skills. Students are expected to demonstrate their ability to apply digital skills in realistic scenarios, such as planning a trip or organising a budget. Mastery of this content builds confidence and readiness for more advanced digital challenges.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→Using digital devices: understanding hardware (e.g., keyboard, mouse, touchscreen) and software (e.g., operating systems, applications), and being able to connect to networks and the internet.
→Handling information: searching for, selecting, and evaluating digital content, including using search engines effectively and understanding the reliability of sources.
→Creating and editing digital content: producing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, including formatting text, inserting images, and using basic formulas.
→Communicating online: using email, messaging apps, and video calls, including attaching files, managing contacts, and understanding netiquette.
→Staying safe and legal online: protecting personal data, recognising phishing scams, understanding copyright, and managing digital footprints.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

1. Using devices and handling information2. Creating and editing3. Communicating4. Transacting5. Being safe and responsible online

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for demonstrating the ability to navigate, locate, and retrieve information using appropriate search techniques and device features.
Award credit for producing accurate and well-formatted digital documents, spreadsheets, or presentations that meet given specifications with attention to layout and editing.
Award credit for selecting and using suitable digital communication tools (e.g., email, messaging) with appropriate tone, clarity, and adherence to etiquette.
Award credit for completing online transactions securely, including verifying payment details and confirming order summaries before submission.
Award credit for evidencing safe practices such as creating strong passwords, identifying phishing attempts, and adjusting privacy settings.

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Always read task instructions carefully: identify key verbs like 'create', 'edit', 'share', or 'compare' to understand exactly what is required.
💡For creating and editing tasks, use built-in spellcheck and formatting tools to enhance document quality and demonstrate proficiency.
💡When communicating online, show awareness of audience and purpose by adjusting your message style and including a clear subject line.
💡In transacting scenarios, screenshot confirmation pages as evidence and explain your verification steps to achieve full marks.
💡For safety questions, provide specific examples of threats (e.g., phishing, malware) and the exact actions taken to mitigate them.
💡Read each question carefully and identify exactly what is being asked. For example, if the question says 'create a spreadsheet to calculate the total cost', make sure you include a formula (like SUM) rather than just typing numbers. Examiners look for correct use of functions.
💡Manage your time wisely. The exam is timed, so don't spend too long on one task. If you're stuck, move on and come back later. Ensure you attempt all parts of the question, as partial marks may be awarded.
💡Pay attention to file management. When asked to save a file with a specific name and in a specific location, do exactly that. Incorrect file names or locations can lose easy marks. Also, double-check that you have attached the correct file when asked to send an email.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Learners often forget to save work regularly, risking data loss and failing to demonstrate effective file management.
Many students rely on informal language in digital communications, overlooking the need for professional tone in assessment contexts.
A frequent error is failing to check transaction confirmations or ignoring on-screen security prompts when making online purchases.
Learners may confuse sharing permissions and accidentally grant excessive access to cloud documents or personal information.
Misconception: 'If it's on the internet, it must be true.' Correction: Not all online information is accurate. Always check the source, look for bias, and cross-reference with other reliable sites. For example, a blog post may contain opinions, not facts.
Misconception: 'I don't need to save my work because the computer will remember it.' Correction: Always save your work regularly to avoid losing it due to crashes or power cuts. Use 'Save As' to give files meaningful names and store them in organised folders.
Misconception: 'Using all capital letters in emails is fine for emphasis.' Correction: In digital communication, using all caps is considered shouting and can be rude. Use bold or italics for emphasis instead, and keep a polite tone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•Basic literacy and numeracy skills (e.g., reading instructions, simple arithmetic) are helpful but not mandatory.
•Familiarity with using a computer or tablet, such as turning it on, using a mouse or touchscreen, and opening applications, is beneficial.
•No formal digital qualifications are required, but some experience with everyday digital tasks (e.g., browsing the internet, sending texts) will make learning easier.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

1. Using devices and handling information2. Creating and editing3. Communicating4. Transacting5. Being safe and responsible online

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Digital Functional Skills Qualifications Level 1

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

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