Training: ICDL BASE – Computer Essentials – BM1

Ref. ECDL1-BM1

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Duration:

2

days

Exam:

Included

Level:

Fundamental

Funding:

Eligible

Home > Trainings > Office Automation > Office Automation Certifications > ICDL BASE – Computer Essentials – BM1

ECDL BASE Training – Essential Computer Skills

The ECDL BASE – Essential Computer Skills – BM1 course provides a clear and structured understanding of fundamental computer concepts. It covers the key skills needed to use a computer, manage files, navigate networks, and ensure data security. This training is an essential first step for anyone who wants to master the fundamentals of digital technology in their daily life.

A solid foundation for the ECDL certification

Through this ECDL training, participants discover how computers and peripherals work, learn to handle operating systems, and perform essential system configurations. The course also focuses on effective file management and understanding commonly used software. The goal is to develop the right habits for working efficiently and safely on any workstation.
This program also prepares learners for the ECDL BASE certification, internationally recognized as proof of essential IT and office productivity skills.

Participant Profiles

Beginner users looking to acquire basic computer skills
Office employees wishing to better understand their digital environment
Individuals preparing for the ECDL BASE certification
Students or job seekers wanting to strengthen their digital skills
Professionals retraining for careers requiring fundamental IT knowledge

Objectives

Understand the key concepts related to information and communication technologies
Identify the main hardware components and peripherals of a computer
Differentiate between types of software and understand their licensing models
Configure and use a Windows workstation efficiently
Create, manage, and organize files and folders following best practices
Connect to a network and understand the basic principles of the Internet
Apply essential IT security and data protection rules
Adopt environmentally friendly and digitally healthy practices

Prerequisites

No prerequisites

Course Content

Computers and Devices

Module 1: ICT

Define the term Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Identify different types of ICT services/uses like: Internet services, mobile technology, office productivity applications

Module 2: Hardware

Define the term hardware. Identify the main types of computers like: desktops, laptops, tab- lets. Identify the main types of devices
Define the terms processor, Random Access Memory (RAM), storage. Understand their impact on performance when using computers and devices
Identify the main types of integrated and exter- nal equipment like: printers, screens, scanners, keyboards, mouse/trackpad, webcam, speakers, microphone, docking station
Identify common input/output ports like: USB, HDMI

Module 3: Software and Licensing

Define the term software and distinguish between the main types of software like: operating systems, applications. Know that software can be installed locally or available online
Define the term operating system and identify some common operating systems for computers and devices
Identify common examples of applications like: office productivity, communications, social networking, media, design, mobile applications
Define the term End-User License Agreement (EULA). Recognise that software must be licensed before use
Outline the types of software licenses: proprietary, open source, trial version, shareware, freeware

Module 4: Start Up, Shut Down

Start a computer and log on securely using a user name and password
Log off, shut down, restart a computer using an appropriate routine

Desktop, Icons, Settings

Module 1: Desktop and Icons

Outline the purpose of the desktop and the taskbar
Identify common icons like those representing: files, folders, applications, printers, drives, shortcuts/aliases, recycle bin/wastebasket/
trash
Select and move icons
Create, rename, move, delete a shortcut/alias

Module 2: Using Windows

Identify the different parts of a window: title bar, menu bar, toolbar, ribbon, status bar, scroll bar
Open, collapse, expand, restore down, maximise, resize, move, close a window
Switch between open windows

Module 3: Tools and Settings

Use available help functions
View the computer’s basic system information: operating system name and version number, installed RAM
Change desktop configuration settings: date and time, volume settings, background, resolution
Change, add, remove keyboard language. Change default language
Shut down a non-responding application
Install, uninstall an application
Connect a device (USB flash drive, digital camera, media player) to a computer. Disconnect a device using an appropriate routine
Capture a full screen, active window

Outputs

Module 1: Working with Text

Open, close a word processing application. Open, close files
Enter text into a document
Copy, move text within a document, between open documents. Paste a screen capture into a document
Save and name a document

Module 2: Printing

Install, uninstall a printer. Print a test page
Set the default printer from an installed printer list
Print a document from a word processing application
View, pause, restart, cancel a print job

File Management

Module 1: Introducing Files and Folders

Understand how an operating system organises drives, folders, files in a hierarchical structure
Navigate between drives, folders, sub-folders, files
Display file, folder properties like: name, size, location
Change view to display files and folders like: tiles, icons, list, details
Identify common file types like: word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, portable document format (pdf), image, audio, video, compressed, executable files
Open a file, folder, drive
Recognise good practice in folder, file naming: use meaningful names for folders and files to help with searching and organisation
Create a folder
Rename a file, folder
Search for files by properties: all or part of file name using wildcards if necessary, content, date modified
View list of recently used files

Module 2: Organising Files and Folders

Select individual, adjacent, non-adjacent files, folders
Sort files in ascending, descending order by name, size, type, date modified
Copy, move files, folders between folders, drives
Delete files, folders to the recycle bin/wastebasket/trash and restore to original location

Module 3: Storage and Compression

Empty the recycle bin/wastebasket/trash
Identify the main types of storage media like: internal hard disk, external hard disk, network drive, CD, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, USB flash drive, memory card, online file storage
Identify file size, folder size, storage capacity measurements like: KB, MB, GB, TB
View available space on a storage device
Understand the purpose of file, folder compression
Compress files, folders
Extract compressed files, folders to a location on a drive

Networks

Module 1: Network Concepts

Define the term network. Outline the purpose of a network: to share, access data and devices securely
Define the term Internet. Identify some of its main uses like: World Wide Web (WWW), VoIP, e-mail, IM
Define the terms intranet, virtual private network (VPN) and identify their main uses
Understand what transfer rate means. Under- stand how it is measured: bits per second (bps), kilobits per second (kbps), megabits per second (mbps), gigabits per second (gbps)
Understand the concepts of downloading from, uploading to a network

Module 2: Network Access

Identify the different options for connecting to the Internet like: phone line, mobile phone, cable, wi-fi, wi-max, satellite
Define the term Internet Service Provider (ISP). Identify important considerations when selecting an internet subscription option like: upload speed, download speed and quota, cost
Recognise the status of a wireless network: protected/secure, open
Connect to a wireless network

Security and Well-Being

Module 1: Protecting Data and Devices

Recognise good password policies like: create with adequate length, adequate character mix, do not share, change regularly
Define the term firewall and outline its purpose
Understand the purpose of regularly backing up data to a remote location
Recognise the importance of regularly updating software like: anti-virus, application, operating system software

Module 2: Malware

Understand the term malware. Identify different types of malware like: virus, worm, Trojan, spyware
Be aware how malware can infect a computer or device
Use anti-virus software to scan a computer

Module 3: Health and Green IT

Recognise ways to help ensure a user’s wellbeing while using a computer or device like: take regular breaks, ensure appropriate lighting and posture
Recognise computer and device energy saving practices: turning off, adjusting automatic shutdown, backlight, sleep mode settings
Recognise that computers, devices, batteries, printer cartridges and paper should be recycled
Identify some options available for enhancing accessibility like: voice recognition software, screen reader, screen magnifier, on-screen keyboard, high contrast

Documentation

Digital courseware included

Lab / Exercises

This course includes hands-on exercises designed to reinforce your knowledge and apply your skills in real-world professional scenarios.

Exam

This training prepares for the exam ICDL Base – Computer Essentials (BM1)

Complementary Courses

Eligible Funding

ITTA is a partner of a continuing education fund dedicated to temporary workers. This fund can subsidize your training, provided that you are subject to the “Service Provision” collective labor agreement (CCT) and meet certain conditions, including having worked at least 88 hours in the past 12 months.

Additional Information

An essential training to understand the modern digital environment

In a world where technology plays a central role, understanding how a computer works has become essential. The ECDL BASE training helps demystify computing and grasp its fundamental principles. It provides a clear understanding of the role of hardware and software components, as well as file and network management. This approach enables learners to navigate the digital environment confidently, both at work and at home.

Developing true digital autonomy

This program goes beyond theory. It focuses on building autonomy in the daily use of digital tools. Participants learn to perform key tasks: organizing documents, protecting data, and using essential operating system features. These skills, often underestimated, are at the heart of modern productivity. The ECDL BASE training transforms beginners into independent users who can manage their digital environment efficiently.

Understanding data security and management challenges

Cybersecurity has become a major concern for everyone. Attacks, malware, and data breaches no longer affect only large companies. Every user is exposed. This course teaches the essential principles to protect oneself effectively. It explains how to create strong passwords, identify suspicious messages, and keep software up to date. Participants also learn how regular data backups can prevent critical losses. These simple actions quickly become essential habits for digital safety.

Building comprehensive computer literacy

One of the great strengths of the ECDL BASE training is its ability to provide well-rounded digital literacy. Beyond technical skills, the course introduces key concepts such as networking, connectivity, and ergonomics. Learners discover how computers communicate, how VPNs work, and why maintaining good posture is important. This global understanding helps users interact more effectively with technology, troubleshoot common problems, and adopt a more responsible and sustainable use of digital tools.

Enhancing your skills with ECDL certification

Enrolling in the ECDL BASE training is also an investment in professional credibility. The ECDL certification is internationally recognized and serves as tangible proof of solid digital skills. It enhances CVs and improves employability across various sectors. Whether working in administration, communication, management, or education, mastering basic IT skills is now a must. This official recognition helps participants stand out in an increasingly digital job market.

Adopting responsible digital practices

The course also emphasizes environmental responsibility and digital well-being. Participants learn to adopt eco-friendly behaviors such as reducing energy consumption and recycling electronic equipment. Additionally, the training raises awareness about ergonomic practices to protect health at work. These often-overlooked aspects promote a more sustainable and balanced relationship with technology, making this course a true foundation for mindful digital practices.

A clear and inclusive teaching approach

Designed for both beginners and users wishing to reinforce their skills, this training follows a progressive and practical teaching method. Concepts are explained in simple terms, supported by real-world examples and exercises. Each module provides an immediate understanding of everyday situations. This accessible approach allows learners to gain not only technical knowledge but also a learning methodology for long-term self-improvement. The ultimate goal is to build genuine confidence in using digital tools.

Why take this training today

In an increasingly connected world, knowing how to use a computer is not enough. One must understand how it works, how to secure data, and how to use it efficiently. The ECDL BASE training meets this need by offering comprehensive, hands-on learning. It prepares participants for certification while developing practical skills applicable in daily professional life. By following this program, learners gain digital confidence and open up new opportunities for growth and adaptation to future technologies.

FAQ

Is the ECDL BASE training suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is designed for all audiences, even those with no prior experience. Concepts are explained clearly and progressively.

What are the main advantages of the ECDL certification?

The ECDL certification officially validates essential digital skills. It boosts professional credibility and opens doors to new career opportunities.

Does this training cover cybersecurity?

Yes, one full module focuses on data security. It covers password management, computer viruses, and best protection practices.

Which tools are used during the training?

Learners work in Windows environments using Word, Excel, and Outlook. These are the most commonly used business tools, ensuring practical and relevant learning.

Why is ECDL BASE an important step?

It provides the foundation for all future digital learning. Understanding the basics allows participants to progress toward more advanced training in office tools, cybersecurity, or data management.