International Computer Drivers Licence (ICDL)

ATI-Mirage is an authorised testing centre for the International Computer Drivers Licence. Here are some frequently asked questions about the ICDL.

What is "ICDL"?
Who does the testing?
Where can I get an ICDL Syllabus?
Does ICDL only concentrate on applications, or does it include basic hardware, and how / why a computer works?
Will the syllabus be updated to reflect current needs?

When can I start my ICDL?
How long will it take me to obtain an ICDL?
How much will it cost me to acquire my ICDL?
What makes ICDL different from doing any computer course?
What does this course qualify the student for? Employment? Advanced standing in other courses?

Are there any manuals or teaching methods that training providers are able to obtain for the course?

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What is "ICDL"?
ICDL stands for International Computer Driving Licence. It is a standard of basic computer competence endorsed by the Australian Computer Society. It recognises the skills people already have or the skills they attain through training. To achieve an ICDL the student must successfully pass one theoretical and six practical tests on:

	Basic concepts of IT (Information Technology)
	Using the computer and managing files
	Word processing
	Spreadsheets
	Databases/Filing Systems
	Presentation and Drawing
	Information network services

These tests can be attempted in any order and at any time. Each successfully completed test is endorsed on an ICDL Skills Card. ATI-Mirage have been accredited by the Australian Computer Society to carry out testing and issue Skills Cards.

When the Skills Card is fully endorsed by ATI-Mirage, it is sent to the ACS and a personalised licence is issued by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

ICDL is not a training course and the ACS does not provide training. ICDL is an ACS accredited standard. If training is required this is available through ATI-Mirage.

The ICDL concept began in Europe in 1996 as the European Computer Drivers Licence (ECDL), has spread to other continents and is now available in over 137 countries. There are now more than 1,000,000 people around the world with their ICDL. In each country, it is administered by the nation's primary computer organisation or society.

How much will it cost me to acquire my ICDL?

The cost of training and/or testing for an individual depends on the level and method of training required, and the type (manual or auto) of testing utilized - pricing details can be found here.

When can I start my ICDL?

At any time, but if training is required, you should check the ICDL Syllabus first to ensure you select the appropriate courses. A copy of the Syllabus can be purchased from ACS, or you can download a copy here. Before you undertake any ICDL test, your must first purchase an ICDL Skills Card – these are available from ATI-Mirage here.

Where can I get an ICDL Syllabus?

A copy of the ICDL Syllabus may be purchased from ACS or you can download a copy in Adobe Acrobat format.

ICDL Syllabus          

What does ICDL qualify the student for? Employment? Advanced standing in other courses?

ICDL shows you have the skills to operate the range of everyday computer applications. ICDL is not a course, but a standard of basic computer competence, which is achieved through testing. The ICDL will provide a performance benchmark for employers.

How long will it take me to obtain an ICDL?

The length of time it takes to complete the requirements of ICDL will vary depending on the selection and structure of the courses you elect to undertake. It will also depend on the existing skills of the individual. Individuals may be able to sit a test without training if they have the necessary skills in that module.

What makes the ICDL different from other courses?

ICDL is not a course, but recognition that the student has achieved a basic standard of computer competence. The ICDL Syllabus sets the minimum requirements to reach this standard with an index of skills/tasks in each module. An ICDL may be achieved by doing any course, so long as it covers the requirements of the ICDL Syllabus. ICDL is generic, i.e. it does not require the student to use any particular application product. This makes ICDL "different". It is also different in that it gives the student a certification that is recognised internationally, is positioned to become the most widely recognised Australian standard of basic computer competence, and which is the only basic computer standard certified by the Australian Computer Society.

Does ICDL only concentrate on applications, or does it include basic hardware, and how/why a computer works?

Most of the Syllabus covers common tasks required in everyday applications. However, the first module covers Basic Concepts of Information Technology, and requires the student to understand the main components of the computer, including hardware and how/why computers are used in education, industry, and home - everyday life.

Are there any manuals or teaching methods that training providers are able to obtain for the ICDL standard?

ACS does not provide course material because ICDL is designed to fit within existing course structures.

Who does the testing?

ATI-Mirage carries out both testing and training for the ICDL. ATI-Mirage was one of the first commercial training organisations in Western Australia to become accredited by the Australian Computer Society.

Will the syllabus be updated to reflect current needs?

The members of the ECDL Foundation review the Syllabus at set times during the year. The ECDL Foundation is a group of international computer societies that administer ICDL in their countries. This ensures that the Syllabus remains consistent worldwide.