NVQ for IT Users (ITQ) Level 2

Course outline

The ITQ qualification is an innovative NVQ for IT users and is suitable for anybody who uses IT as part of their job, or intends to seek work in this area. It has been designed by employers and the programme’s unique 'pick and mix' design makes it ideal for the workplace, allowing candidates to choose exactly which units best reflect their job profile, and making it adaptable for almost any workplace.

Course content

A range of IT software packages must be used to gain the full ITQ, but individual units can also be accredited. Candidates can start at any level of ITQ, depending on their current level of knowledge and job role.

An individual structure will be devised for each candidate, consisting of an evidence-based mandatory unit – which will demonstrate the learner’s ability to make selective use of IT – and a number of optional units. To achieve a full Level 2 NVQ qualification, the candidate has to achieve 100 points: 25 from the mandatory unit, and the remaining 75 points from the range of optional units.

Mandatory unit:

The mandatory unit ensures that the candidate can apply their IT knowledge and skills in a practical and work-related manner, and as such, no training on this unit is necessary and there are no learning materials.

• Make selective use of IT - 25 points (evidence based)

Optional units:

Each optional unit workbook contains knowledge, tasks and activities designed to cover the specific learning outcomes required by the standards.

• Operate a computer - 20 points
• Word-processing - 20 points
• Spreadsheet software - 20 points
• Presentation software - 20 points
• Using email - 15 points
• Internet and intranet - 15 points
• Website software - 20 points
• Artwork and imaging - 20 points

Candidates can choose from other optional units at Levels 1, 2 and 3 (depending on the candidate’s level of competence in a particular area) providing at least half of the unit value of the optional units is achieved at the level of the qualification.

Course delivery and assessment

Candidates will be provided with the course materials for each unit and will be required to work through a series of tasks and activities designed to reinforce the learning process and test their knowledge. For the assessment, candidates must provide evidence to demonstrate that they can apply specific skills, knowledge and understanding to their actual job role. The format of the assessment will be individual to the candidate but may include observation by the assessor, witness testimony from an expert within the organisation, samples of work produced for the workplace, assignments, questions and discussions.

Progression opportunities

Successful completion of individual units and subsequent application within a working environment will allow the candidate to progress towards the achievement of the full ITQ qualification. Should a candidate’s job role develop with their use of IT, it may be appropriate to progress to the next level. The learner may also wish to progress on to business administration and management courses.

This course is suitable for use by learners working with Windows XP® and earlier versions of Windows®.