Introducing ITQ

Who is it for?

Employees and work-based learners

Primarily ITQ is aimed at those in employment, with an emphasis on those who are using IT as a significant part of their role. This is not limited to those working at a desk or with a PC, since tailored programmes can be designed for those working with other ICT systems (eg in retail, engineering or manufacturing).

Full-time or part-time? Paid or voluntary? ITQ is suitable for them all. The important thing is that the employee has the opportunity to apply their newly learnt skills within the workplace.

Unemployed, or those seeking work

9 out of 10 new jobs require people with IT user skills. Operating a computer and being able to use the internet and a word processor are essential skills for life as well as work.

All the learning towards the optional units can be undertaken in a learning centre. Assessment of the optional units can be under simulated workplace conditions or by other recognised qualification. The mandatory unit must be assessed on tasks that have been done for a real purpose. Searching for a job using the internet, preparing a CV, writing letters of application, keeping records of applications - these would all be suitable tasks for assessment.

Full-time and part-time students

Again, all the learning and assessment for the optional units can be undertaken in School or College. Knowledge tests, simulation, and realistic working environments are all valid for assessment of the optional units.

Assessment of the mandatory unit can be linked to work experience placement, giving the student the opportunity to use evidence arising naturally from workplace tasks and activities. It can also be linked to project work, whether for IT or for another subject - a school project or undergraduate dissertation or thesis would provide a candidate with plenty of opportunities to demonstrate the application of IT user skills for a real purpose.

Last modified: 10 Jun 2008