Sometimes short courses in computing, languages, business, bookkeeping and of course, learning to drive can be of immense help in making you more employable.
Many jobs require "basic IT competence", but what does this mean? Maybe you feel you use a PC efficiently in your daily work, but how do you prove this?
The ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) is an internationally highly respected certificate that verifies your computer knowledge and practical computing skills. It is a qualification that has been designed to meet the needs of both employers and employees. All ECDL modules are self-study - you have a manual and study whenever is convenient and there are also interactive on-line learning modules available.
The ECDL syllabus covers the key concepts of computers, standard business applications, and uses in the workplace and society in general. It is divided into seven modules:
The ECDL is open to all University of Kent registered students. The current registration fee is £90. This includes the purchase of your logbook, a training handbook and test fees. See www.kent.ac.uk/student/skills/ecdl for details of how to register
Activ is a new online IT learning solution for University of Kent staff and students accessed from any PC connected to the internet. It provides learning modules on Vista, XP, Office 2003 or Office 2007. Topics include: using Windows, managing files, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations and using the internet and email. Modules are fully interactive and cover the ECDL syllabus www.kent.ac.uk/itservices/stafftraining/online
If you are no longer at the University you can find your nearest UK ECDL training Centre at the British Computer Society Website www.bcs.org/server.php?show=nav.5829 - just type in your postcode. Many colleges will offer it at low prices if you are unwaged. For other countries go to www.ecdl.com
See www.kent.ac.uk/careers/distance.htm to find part-time courses in any part of the country.
Hot Courses www.hotcourses.com is a particularly good database of courses.
Typing learn XXX into Google, will give you free training on almost any subject. For example:
Most university or public libraries will have a wide range of computing books you can borrow to teach you these programs. For example you can search and reserve books from Kent Libraries at http://libcat.kent.gov.uk or of course, you can buy your own copy via Amazon.
Last fully updated 2012
© These pages are copyright of the University of Kent Careers and Employability Service.
The information and advice given in these pages is primarily for
the benefit of University of Kent students and graduates.
You are most welcome to link to these pages but should not use content in other ways without our permission.
Page maintained by Bruce Woodcock
Please email
me if you wish to make any suggestions which would improve our services.