European Computer Driving Licence Test Centre Operations...

European Computer Driving Licence

Test Centre Operations Manual

Version 6.0

April 2012

ECDL Malta Operations Manual

Version 6.0 Page ii April 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................... 1

1.1. National Operator .................................................................................................... 1

1.2. Purpose & Scope .................................................................................................... 1

1.3. Structure of the Manual ........................................................................................... 3

1.4. Compliance & Sanctions ......................................................................................... 3

1.5. Communication with Test Centres ........................................................................... 3

1.6. Postal Address & Contact Details ............................................................................ 3

1.7. Technical Queries ................................................................................................... 4

1.8. Payments ................................................................................................................ 4

2. Test Centre Staff ............................................................................................................. 5

2.1. Test Centre Manager .............................................................................................. 5

2.2. The Invigilator ......................................................................................................... 5

2.3. Test Centre Staffing Requirements ......................................................................... 6

2.4. Additional Test Centre Staff .................................................................................... 6

3. Test Centre Operations .................................................................................................. 7

3.1. Applying for Accreditation ........................................................................................ 7

3.2. Test Centre Environment ........................................................................................ 7

3.3. Courseware ............................................................................................................. 7

3.4. Test Centre Certificate & Stamp .............................................................................. 7

3.5. Secure Storage Facilities ........................................................................................ 7

3.6. Candidate Files ....................................................................................................... 8

3.7. Test Session Records ............................................................................................. 8

3.8. Test Records Database........................................................................................... 8

3.9. Retention of Records .............................................................................................. 8

3.10. Appeals Procedure ................................................................................................ 8

3.11. Advertising ............................................................................................................ 8

3.12. Use of Logos ......................................................................................................... 8

4. Testing Locations ........................................................................................................... 9

4.1. Testing Locations .................................................................................................... 9

4.2. Test Centre Branches ............................................................................................. 9

4.3. External Testing Locations ...................................................................................... 9


Version 6.0 Page iii April 2012

5. Candidate Registration ................................................................................................ 11

5.1. Proof of Identity .................................................................................................... 11

5.2. Registration Data ................................................................................................. 11

6. Conducting Tests ......................................................................................................... 13

6.1. Avoidance of Conflict ............................................................................................ 13

6.2. Preliminary Checks ............................................................................................... 13

6.3. Preparation of Test Materials & Files ..................................................................... 13

6.4. Preparation of Test Equipment .............................................................................. 13

6.5. Pre-test Procedures .............................................................................................. 14

6.6. During the Test ..................................................................................................... 15

6.7. At the End of the Test ........................................................................................... 15

6.8. Problems during Testing ....................................................................................... 16

6.9. Feedback .............................................................................................................. 16

6.10. Revision of Paper ................................................................................................ 16

7. Certificates .................................................................................................................... 18

7.1. Distributing Certificates to Candidates ................................................................... 18

7.2. Replacement of Damaged Certificates .................................................................. 18

7.3. Replacement of Lost Certificates ........................................................................... 18

8. Quality Assurance ........................................................................................................ 19

8.1. Quality Audit .......................................................................................................... 19

8.2. Audit Action Plan ................................................................................................... 19

9. Candidates with Special Needs ................................................................................... 21

9.1. Introduction ........................................................................................................... 21

9.2. Accommodations................................................................................................... 21

9.3. The Application Process ........................................................................................ 22

9.4. Confidentiality ....................................................................................................... 22

9.5. Outcome of Application ......................................................................................... 22

9.6. Records ................................................................................................................ 22

9.7. Guidelines for Personal Assistance ....................................................................... 23


Version 6.0 Page iv April 2012

10. EqualSkills .................................................................................................................. 24

10.1. Overview ............................................................................................................. 24

10.2. Facilitators ........................................................................................................... 24

10.3. Candidate Registration ........................................................................................ 25

10.4. Workbooks .......................................................................................................... 26

10.5. Certification ......................................................................................................... 27

11. ECDL Core .................................................................................................................. 28

11.1. Overview ............................................................................................................. 28

11.2. Invigilators ........................................................................................................... 28

11.3. Purchase & Custody of Skills Cards .................................................................... 28

11.4. Issuing Skills Cards ............................................................................................. 29

11.5. Corrections to Skills Cards .................................................................................. 29

11.6. Replacement of Skills Cards ............................................................................... 29

11.7. Change of Candidate Name ................................................................................ 29

11.8. Signing Off Skills Cards ....................................................................................... 30

11.9. Failed Tests & Re-sits ......................................................................................... 30

11.10. Candidates’ Movement between Test Centres .................................................. 30

11.11. Certification ....................................................................................................... 31

11.12. Certification – ECDL Start ................................................................................. 31

12. ECDL Advanced & Expert .......................................................................................... 32

12.1. Overview ............................................................................................................. 32

12.2. Invigilators ........................................................................................................... 32

12.3. Advanced Registration Numbers ......................................................................... 32

12.4. Purchasing Advanced Registration Numbers ...................................................... 33

12.5. Registration of Candidates & Test Sessions ........................................................ 33

12.6. Re-sits ................................................................................................................. 34

12.7. Certification ......................................................................................................... 34

12.8. ECDL Expert Certification ................................................................................... 34


Version 6.0 Page v April 2012

13. ECDL Image Editing & Web Editing .......................................................................... 36

13.1. Overview ............................................................................................................. 36

13.2. Invigilators ........................................................................................................... 36

13.3. Registration Numbers.......................................................................................... 36

13.4. Purchasing Registration Numbers ....................................................................... 37

13.5. Marking of Tests .................................................................................................. 37

13.6. Re-sits ................................................................................................................. 38

13.7. Certification ......................................................................................................... 38

14. ECDL CAD ................................................................................................................... 39

14.1. Overview ............................................................................................................. 39

14.2. Invigilators ........................................................................................................... 39

14.3. Registration Numbers.......................................................................................... 39

14.4. Purchasing Registration Numbers ....................................................................... 39

14.5. Marking of Tests .................................................................................................. 40

14.6. Re-sits ................................................................................................................. 40

14.7. Certification ......................................................................................................... 41

Appendix A: Forms & Templates ..................................................................................... 42

Appendix A1: EqualSkills Facilitator/Invigilator Application Form ................................. 42

Appendix A2: New Product Application Form ............................................................... 45

Appendix A3: Testing Location Application Form ......................................................... 46

Appendix A4: ECDL Test Attendance Sheet ................................................................ 48

Appendix A5: Application for Persons with Special Needs ........................................... 49

Appendix B: Data Record Specifications ........................................................................ 52

Appendix B1: Candidate Registration Details ............................................................... 52

Appendix B2: Test Records Database ......................................................................... 53

Appendix B3: Test Results Covering Note ................................................................... 54


Version 6.0 Page vi April 2012

Appendix C: Standards & Procedures ............................................................................. 55

Appendix C1: Test Environment Standards .................................................................. 55

Appendix C2: Courseware Standards .......................................................................... 56

Appendix C3: Candidate Appeals Procedure ............................................................... 59

Appendix C4: Correction of Skills Cards....................................................................... 60

Appendix C5: Replacement of Skills Cards .................................................................. 62

Appendix C6: Test Regulations .................................................................................... 64

Appendix C7: Equal Opportunities Policy ..................................................................... 65

Appendix C8: Set-up Instructions for EqualSkills Workbook Exercises ........................ 66


Version 6.0 Page 1 April 2012

1. Introduction

1.1. National Operator

The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is administered worldwide by the ECDL Foundation which lays down the rules and regulations governing the administration of the ECDL range of products and the award of corresponding certificates.

ECDL Malta is authorised by the ECDL Foundation to oversee the administration of the ECDL certifications in Malta and Gozo in accordance with the Foundation’s established standards.

1.2. Purpose & Scope

The ECDL Malta Test Centre Operations Manual documents the standards and procedures to be followed by Test Centres operating one or more of the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) qualifications in Malta and Gozo.

All staff involved in managing, and administering ECDL qualifications are requested to read and adhere to the standards and procedures documented in this manual. Candidates’ results may be invalidated if procedures are not followed correctly.

ECDL Malta offers the following qualifications:

EqualSkills

EqualSkills is an entry-level computer skills certification programme aimed at complete beginners. In contrast to the other ECDL certifications there is no test associated with this programme. The course is based upon a workbook and students who successfully complete the workbook are awarded the certificate. EqualSkills is managed and administered through an online web system www.equalskills.com.

ECDL Core

ECDL Core covers basic computer skills and the use of common applications in the workplace, the home and in society in general. Outside of Europe the programme is known as the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL). ECDL Core is divided into seven modules with a separate test for each module:

Module 1 Concepts of Information & Communication Technology (ICT)

Module 2 Using the Computer & Managing Files;

Module 3 Word Processing;

Module 4 Spreadsheets;

Module 5 Using Databases;

Module 6 Presentation;

Module 7 Web Browsing & Communication.

The tests in these modules do not have to be taken in any specific order.

http://www.equalskills.com/



Candidates are issued with a Skills Card and every successfully passed test is recorded on the card by authorised Test Centre staff.

On completion of all seven tests, the Candidate will be awarded the ECDL certificate. The ECDL Core certificate awarded is referenced to Level Three of the Malta Qualifications Framework and the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning.

Candidates may also opt for the ECDL Start certificate on completion of any four modules of the ECDL Core programme.

ECDL Advanced & Expert

ECDL Advanced is a higher-level programme that builds on the skills covered in the ECDL Core qualification. The programme consists of four modules:

AM3 Word Processing;

AM4 Spreadsheets;

AM5 Database;

AM6 Presentation.

A certificate is provided to Candidates for each test passed successfully. There is no Skills Card for the advanced test.

Test centres licensed to offer ECDL Advanced testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests.

A Candidate is awarded an ECDL Expert Certificate upon successful completion of all four ECDL Advanced modules. The Expert Certificate is referenced to Level Four of the Malta Qualifications Framework and the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning.

ECDL Image Editing

ECDL Image Editing has been specifically designed for anyone who wants to acquire the skills to work with digital images, without having to commit to the time and expense of a professional-level digital image editing certification.

Test centres licensed to offer ECDL Image Editing testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests. Test files are then forwarded to ECDL Malta for marking.

A certificate is provided to Candidates on successful completion of the test.

ECDL Web Editing

ECDL Web Editing covers the basic skills required to design and create a simple website. Test centres licensed to offer ECDL Web Editing testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests. Test files are then forwarded to ECDL Malta for marking.




ECDL CAD

ECDL CAD is an introductory level certification covering two-dimensional design targeting engineering or architectural students or Candidates who require a general grounding in CAD.

Test centres licensed to offer ECDL CAD testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests. Test files are then forwarded to ECDL Malta for marking.


1.3. Structure of the Manual

Chapters 1 – 9 contain generic information applicable to all Test Centres.

The remaining contain information specific to the individual ECDL qualifications.

1.4. Compliance & Sanctions

The procedures laid out in this manual have been designed to comply with the requirements outlined in the ECDL Foundation Quality Assurance standards. Test Centres are to ensure that they administer ECDL qualifications in strict compliance with the specified procedures.

Sanctions will be applied to Test Centres and staff who fail to abide by the specified procedures. The severity of the sanction will be commensurate with the gravity of the infringement, and can include suspension or withdrawal of the operating license.

Accuracy of all data maintained by the centre and/or forwarded to ECDL Malta is of paramount importance. Sanctions will be applied to Test Centres in cases of repeated negligence.

1.5. Communication with Test Centres

Important information relating to the ECDL qualifications will be sent directly to the Test Centre Manager.

Please ensure that ECDL Malta is kept informed of any changes to the Test Centre Manager’s e-mail address. The Test Centre Manager is responsible for ensuring that all Centre staff, including those based at external testing locations, are updated as necessary.

1.6. Postal Address & Contact Details

Postal address

ECDL Malta Flat 2, St John's Flats Naxxar Road Birkirkara BKR9040

Telephone

Customer Support Phone: 21 667706 Monday to Friday 0930 to1430hrs



URL

www.ecdl.com.mt

E-mail

The following e-mail addresses should be used as indicated below:

E-mail address Usage

[email protected] For general & administration queries related to ECDL qualifications.

[email protected] For queries and correspondence related to ECDL Core including Candidate registrations, certifications etc.

[email protected] For queries and correspondence related to ECDL Advanced including Candidate registrations, certifications etc.

[email protected] For queries and correspondence related to ECDL Web Editing, Image Editing and CAD including Candidate registrations, e-mailing tests, certifications etc.

1.7. Technical Queries

When communicating by e-mail, please refrain from posting test questions because of risk of disclosure. Instead, please indicate the module test, version number and question number.

1.8. Payments

Payments should be made by cheques payable to “ECDL Malta Ltd.”.

http://www.ecdl.com.mt/

mailto:[email protected]






2. Test Centre Staff

2.1. Test Centre Manager

All Test Centres must have a Centre Manager in order to operate. The Test Centre Manager is not required to be a manager in terms of the organisation or institution.

Responsibilities

The Test Centre Manager has overall responsibility for the daily management of the Test Centre. S/he is:

responsible for the quality of training and testing provided at the Centre;

responsible for ensuring that all Test Centre staff are adequately trained and are administering the qualification in accordance with the required standards;

responsible for observing all new Invigilators during their initial sessions until satisfied that they have fully understood the job requirements and that the test regulations are being properly followed;

the main point of contact for materials and certification with ECDL Malta.

Change of Test Centre Manager

If there is a change of Test Centre Manager, this must be notified immediately to ECDL Malta in writing, and the notification signed by the outgoing and incoming Test Centre Managers. Please ensure that full contact details for the new Test Centre Manager are supplied including e-mail address.

2.2. The Invigilator

Responsibilities

The Invigilator is responsible for ensuring that ECDL tests are carried out in accordance with the conditions stipulated in this manual.

Requirements

The prerequisites for invigilators for the various products are specified in the appropriate product chapters.

New Invigilators

A Test Centre wishing to register a new Invigilator should fill in the Invigilator Form (Appendix A1) and send the completed application to the ECDL Malta. Applicable charges are specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.



2.3. Test Centre Staffing Requirements

Please note that the following requirements must be satisfied at all times:

1. At least two members of staff must be registered as Invigilators for each certification being offered.

2. All members of staff who are involved in the invigilation of tests must be registered with ECDL Malta.

If at any time a Test Centre does not have the required staff for a particular certification, it will be in breach of its accreditation and must cease all testing for that certification until the required staffing level has been achieved.

The Test Centre Manager may also be an Invigilator.

2.4. Additional Test Centre Staff

When a Test Centre wishes to make use of new Invigilators, the following procedure should be followed:

1. The Invigilator form (Appendix A1) should be completed, signed by the Test Centre Manager, and forwarded to ECDL Malta together with copies of Teaching/IT related qualifications;

2. ECDL Malta will subsequently advise the Test Centre Manager regarding the next training session;

3. Once the individual has successfully completed the required training, ECDL Malta will advise the Test Centre Manager, and the Invigilator may begin testing. ECDL Malta will also provide the Invigilators with an Invigilator’s Certificate.

Charges

Test Centre Managers are requested to contact ECDL Malta regarding the applicable charges for Invigilator training.

If a place on a training course is cancelled 5 days or more before the event, Centres will be given the opportunity to transfer their place to a new training day. Where less than 5 days notice is given, this option will not be available unless there is a waiting list for the event.

If a named delegate cannot attend, the Centre has the option to replace that delegate with a suitable alternative individual employed with the Centre. The Centre must forward a completed Invigilator form and supporting documentation at least three days before the scheduled training.

On no account will refunds be given for non-attendance.



3. Test Centre Operations

3.1. Applying for Accreditation

Before it is allowed to administer any ECDL product, an organisation is subject to a site visit to ensure that it meets the required standard in terms of facilities and management.

Once a Test Centre has successfully passed the initial accreditation procedure, it is eligible to apply to administer the full range of ECDL products, provided it fulfils the requirements in terms of invigilation staff for a specific product. However, ECDL Malta strongly advises a gradual introduction of products and in certain cases may delay authorisation until a Test Centre has demonstrated its competence in providing training and conducting tests.

A Test Centre wishing to obtain authorisation to administer an additional ECDL product should fill in the Form in Appendix A2 and forward this to ECDL Malta. Relevant charges for invigilator training are applicable.

3.2. Test Centre Environment

The Test Centre is required to maintain a safe and professional environment in accordance with the requirements specified in Appendix C1.

3.3. Courseware

In delivering training leading to an ECDL qualification, the Test Centre shall make use of licensed courseware which has been approved by the ECDL Foundation or by ECDL Malta. The ECDL Malta Courseware Standards may be found in Appendix C2.

3.4. Test Centre Certificate & Stamp

ECDL Malta provides the Test Centre with an ECDL Test Centre Certificate. Arrangements should be made so that this certificate is displayed in a prominent place at the Test Centre.

Every ECDL Approved Test Centre should procure an official stamp showing the Test Centre name and Test Centre ID code assigned by ECDL Malta.

3.5. Secure Storage Facilities

The Test Centre must be equipped with secure storage facilities only accessible to authorised staff. This is required for storage of Skills Cards, certificates and test results.



3.6. Candidate Files

The Test Centre must maintain a file for every Candidate who sat for one or more tests with the Centre. The Candidate file should include the following:

1. Photocopy of proof of identity.

2. Reports documenting authorisation of special conditions to Candidates with special needs.

3.7. Test Session Records

The Test Centre must maintain records of all testing sessions held at the Centre using the Form in Appendix A4 or a similar Form.

3.8. Test Records Database

The Test Centre must maintain an electronic test records database with records of all tests carried out at the Centre. Such records must be maintained in one database, including in the case of Test Centres operating multiple sites. These records must be retained indefinitely. Details of data items to be recorded are specified in Appendix B2. In the case of ECDL Core and ECDL Advanced qualifications, Test Centres are required to use the database features in-built in the automated testing software.

3.9. Retention of Records

All files, data and records referred to in previous sections should be kept until ECDL Malta conducts a routine quality audit. Once the Test Centre has received the audit report, it may archive records and files as specified in section 8.2.

3.10. Appeals Procedure

The Test Centre is required to operate a Candidates’ Appeals Procedure. A Centre may adopt the standard ECDL Malta procedure or may develop its own procedure, provided that this fulfils the requirement of the standard procedure specified in Appendix C3.

3.11. Advertising

The Test Centre shall ensure that any marketing and advertising shall be appropriate and in good taste and shall not in any way debase or bring into disrepute the ECDL Concept or the National Operator.

3.12. Use of Logos

The Test Centre shall ensure that any use of ECDL logos is in accordance with the appropriate regulations. Test Centres can download electronic versions of logos from: http://www.ecdl.com.mt/pword.html

http://www.ecdl.com.mt/pword.html



4. Testing Locations

4.1. Testing Locations

An Approved Test Centre may seek to obtain permission to conduct tests at locations other than the Test Centre main office. These additional testing locations must be registered with ECDL Malta prior to any testing taking place there.

There are two types of testing location:

Test Centre Branches;

External Testing Locations.

Management of Testing Locations

The Test Centre Manager retains responsibility for all aspects of ECDL testing conducted at these sites. Administration of tests at the additional locations must be carried out by Test Centre staff, and all Candidate files and test records must be centrally kept with the other Test Centre data.

Registration of Testing Locations

A Test Centre wishing to register an additional testing location should fill in the Testing Location Registration Form (Appendix A3) and send this to ECDL Malta together with a cheque for the appropriate fee as specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

ECDL Malta will organise a site visit to ensure that the location conforms to the required standard, and will subsequently advise the applicant Test Centre of the outcome.

4.2. Test Centre Branches

Test Centre branches are premises which are owned or leased by the Test Centre for their exclusive use. The premises should be identified as being a branch of the Test Centre by appropriate permanent external signage.

Test papers may be stored at Test Centre branches provided appropriate secure facilities are available.

4.3. External Testing Locations

It is also possible for Test Centres to obtain authorisation to conduct tests on behalf of third party organisations at the latter’s premises. Examples of such organisations include schools and businesses.



Conducting Tests at External Testing Locations

Conducting of ECDL tests at external testing locations is subject to strict observance of the following conditions:

1. All preparation of equipment and invigilation of tests must be performed by the Test Centre’s own registered staff;

2. Following testing, all test materials including papers and files (where applicable) must be collected by the Invigilator and transferred to the Test Centre;

3. All Candidate records and testing materials must be held at the Test Centre;

4. Skills Cards should be validated with the official Test Centre stamp.

Obligations of External Testing Entities

Autonomous entities registered as external testing locations are obliged to subscribe to the standard requirements of ECDL Approved Test Centres including Health & Safety Standards (Appendix C1), Equal Opportunities Policy (Appendix C7) and Appeals Procedure (Appendix C3).

Advertising by External Testing Entities

Autonomous entities registered as external testing locations are not allowed to make use of ECDL logos in their advertising.



5. Candidate Registration

5.1. Proof of Identity

Test Centres shall ensure that Candidates provide proof of identity at the time of registration as follows:

All Maltese nationals of age fourteen or over should present their ID card as identification.

Foreign nationals should present their passport as identification.

In the case of children under the age of fourteen, a birth certificate issued by the Public Registry should be presented. In such cases, the Test Centre officer registering the Candidate should ask the Candidate for the father’s name and mother’s name and maiden surname and confirm these details against the birth certificate.

In the case of ECDL Core, a photocopy of the Candidate’s proof of identity should be retained in the Candidate file. This should then be forwarded to ECDL Malta with the Candidate’s Skills Card when applying for the certificate.

In the case of other ECDL certifications, a photocopy or scanned image of the Candidate’s proof of identity (plus test centre and registration number) should be forwarded to ECDL Malta following registration.

All application forms must contain a Data Protection clause.

5.2. Registration Data

The Test Centre is required to maintain the registration details of all Registration Numbers (and Skills Cards) which have been issued, and should e-mail details of new registrations to ECDL Malta. Candidates are to be registered with ECDL Malta using the appropriate registration template before they sit for the test.

In the case of ECDL certifications where marking is performed by ECDL Malta, registration data is to reach ECDL Malta at least two working days in advance of the Candidate sitting the test.

ECDL Malta provides a standard spreadsheet to all Test Centres for the purpose of recording the required registration details. Details of the data to be sent are specified in Appendix B1. Test Centre staff should ensure that the registration data is correct and accurate to avoid problems with the issuing of certificates. Repeated negligence in this regard will result in sanctions being applied to the offending Test Centre.

Note that:

Name and Surname: The Candidate’s name must be filled in as it appears on the ID card or identification document.

Identity Card No.: The Candidate’s ID card number, or passport number in the case of foreign nationals. In the case of students under fourteen



years of age, the Candidate’s ID number can be found on the Candidate’s birth certificate.



6. Conducting Tests

6.1. Avoidance of Conflict

If a Test Centre undertakes both training and testing activities, the Centre should ensure that tests are not invigilated by the person who trained the Candidates in that module. The Test Centre is expected to demonstrate the appropriate controls during the annual audit.

6.2. Preliminary Checks

When a Candidate registers for an ECDL Core test, the Test Centre is required to check that the Skills Card is still valid. A Skills Card is valid for a period of three years from the earliest test pass recorded on it. For the avoidance of doubt, if the first test pass is dated 1st January 2008, the Skills Card remains valid until 31st December 2010.

6.3. Preparation of Test Materials & Files

An attendance sheet using the template in Appendix A4 should be prepared listing the Candidates and their corresponding Registration Number (or Skills Card for ECDL Core).

In the case of manual testing, photocopies of test papers and Candidate files (or secure server area) should be prepared in advance of the test session. These materials should be kept locked in a secure location until the time of the test.

Test Papers (Manual testing only)

It is recommended that the authorised Invigilator randomly selects a test version from the test bank. However, when selecting a test, the Invigilator must take into account Candidates who have previously failed a module, since these cannot take the same test version twice. Unnecessary copies of test papers should be avoided.

Candidate Files (Manual testing only)

The Candidate disk (or secure server area) must contain all test files to be used during a test.

6.4. Preparation of Test Equipment

The Invigilator is responsible for ensuring that the test equipment is fully functional prior to the start of the test. It is highly advisable to have extra workstations available during all test sessions. Candidates may need to be relocated to these workstations in case of hardware or software failures during the test session.

Prior to allowing Candidates into the test room, the Invigilator should conduct the following checks:



1. Switch on all workstations, and check the system date and time since this will be recorded on output files and will be referred to during the annual Test Centre audit. If necessary the system date and time should be corrected.

2. It is advisable that the Invigilator launches the application programs to be used during a test session to check that these are operating as expected. All workstations should display the operating system desktop screen at the beginning of the test.

3. Tests must be conducted on workstations with operating system and application programs set to their default installation settings. For example toolbars must not be customised in any way. Toolbars must be reset to their default setting. However, the following system features may be set to meet the local scenario:

The system measurement units can be changed to the metric system (cm).

The system currency style can be changed to the Euro currency symbol (€).

The system date format can be changed to dd/mm/yy format.

4. Internet connectivity should be disabled for tests that do not require its use.

6.5. Pre-test Procedures

Following successful conclusion of the preliminary checks, Candidates may be allowed to enter the test room. The Invigilator is expected to direct each Candidate to his or her desk.

Attendance Sheet

The Invigilator should then confirm each Candidate’s identity by checking his or her identification document such as the ID card, or passport in the case of foreign nationals. Following this check, each Candidate should sign the attendance sheet.

Test Regulations

Preparations for the test may then proceed as follows:

1. Mobile phones and any other electronic devices must be switched off., Books, notes, disks, mobile phones & electronic devices must be kept away from the Candidates’ desks.

2. Once all Candidates are seated, test papers (where applicable) can be distributed, and Candidates can be given access to their workfiles (on diskettes or on the server area). Candidates should read the content of the paper until the start of the test.



3. The Invigilator should then read out the Test Regulations (Appendix C6) to the Candidates. Alternatively, Test Regulations in large print format should be prominently displayed in the testing room so that they can be easily read by all Candidates.

4. The Invigilator should confirm that the Candidates have read and understood the regulations, and should answer any questions the Candidates may have in this regard.

5. Following any clarifications, the Invigilator announces the beginning of the test and records the time on the attendance sheet.

COMMENCEMENT OF THE TEST

You may start your work. You have 45 minutes (60 minutes in the case of ECDL Advanced) to complete your Test. Good luck!

6.6. During the Test

The Invigilator must be present for the entire duration of the test, and must ensure that Candidates fully observe and comply with Test Regulations.

No other personnel may enter the test room during the test session. No Candidate can leave the test room unaccompanied during the test.

Approximately ten (10) minutes before the end of the test, the Invigilator should remind the Candidates about the remaining time.

6.7. At the End of the Test

For manual tests, at the end of the stipulated test period, the Invigilator must announce clearly that the test has come to an end, preferably using the “End of Test Instructions” text below:

END OF TEST INSTRUCTIONS

The test is over. Please stop working and save your workfiles now.

I would like to remind you that the modification time of workfiles is checked during marking and your test may be invalidated if the modification time shows that you have exceeded the allotted time.

The Invigilator should then collect ALL test papers and Candidate files.

Candidates are expected to leave the test room in an orderly manner and quietly especially if there are Candidates who have re-started the test on another workstation.

The Invigilator must follow other procedures set by the Test Centre Manager such as resealing of envelopes etc.



The Invigilator is expected to report any problems of significance during the test to the Test Centre Manager.

The Invigilator must ensure that workstations have no test files saved on their local hard disks. No files are to be copied by the Invigilator from workstations onto the Candidate’s disk.

6.8. Problems during Testing

Accidental Erasure of Files

During manual tests, a Candidate may perform a task which cannot be undone. The Invigilator can provide the Candidate with a new set of test files so that the Candidate continues the test. No extra time is allocated to the Candidate.

Hardware or Software Problems

Candidates encountering hardware/software problems should be relocated on another workstation. The Invigilator must ensure that there are valid reasons for a Candidate to be relocated on another workstation.

It is recommended that such Candidates are provided with another set of test files. The Candidates will restart the test. Full test time must be re-allocated.

The Invigilator is requested to write a brief description outlining the identification number of the workstation with hardware/software faults. The details of the Candidate working on the faulty workstation must also be recorded.

Power Failure

In the event of a power failure, the test session will have to be cancelled. All test papers and Candidate disks are to be collected.

6.9. Feedback

The results of each test should be communicated to the Candidate as soon as possible after the completion of the test. Specific feedback on the results must include the score and whether the Candidate has passed or failed.

6.10. Revision of Paper

Certifications marked by Test Centre

Candidates who have failed a test may request a revision of paper. In such cases, the Test Centre may levy a fee for the procedure but such fee shall not exceed the fee normally charged by the Centre for conducting a test.

In the event that the revision of paper indicates that the Candidate has passed the test, the Test Centre shall refund the revision fee to the Candidate.

Certifications marked by ECDL Malta

Requests for revision of paper should be forwarded to ECDL Malta. The applicable fees are specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.



In the event that the revision of paper indicates that the Candidate has passed the test, the revision fee will be refunded to the Candidate.



7. Certificates

7.1. Distributing Certificates to Candidates

It is important to ensure that there is an audit trail for the distribution of Candidate certificates. Test Centres will collect certificates from ECDL Malta. Test Centres will then notify each Candidate to come and collect his or her certificate and sign as proof of collection.

7.2. Replacement of Damaged Certificates

In the case of a damaged certificate, the Candidate should return the damaged certificate to the issuing Test Centre which will then forward it to the ECDL Malta for replacement, together with a cheque for the appropriate fee as specified in the Schedule of Fees (available from ECDL Malta) and contact details (name, e-mail, telephone or mobile number).

7.3. Replacement of Lost Certificates

If a Candidate has lost his or her certificate, it is possible to provide a replacement certificate against payment of the relevant fee as specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta. The Candidate should submit a request for a replacement certificate through the issuing Test Centre.

Replacement certificates will have the word “Replacement” printed to indicate that the original certificate has been lost.



8. Quality Assurance

8.1. Quality Audit

ECDL Malta will carry out a periodical audit of all Test Centres to ensure that the Centre is operating in accordance with the required standards and procedures.

Period to be Audited

The Audit will normally cover the operating period between the previous Audit and the current date.

Scheduling the Audit

The Test Centre Manager will be informed two weeks in advance of the planned audit visit. The Test Centre Manager is expected to confirm the date or make alternative arrangements with the ECDL Malta auditor.

Preparing for the Audit

The Test Centre Manager should ensure that the auditor can access all candidate and test data on the automated testing software.

The auditor will require the following data:

1. Test data records that include all the fields specified in Appendix B2.

2. Test session attendance sheets as per Appendix A4.

The Audit

The Test Centre Manager must be present during the audit visit. Other Test Centre staff may also be present during the visit.

The auditor will review and evaluate the Test Centre operations, and ensure that any action points highlighted in the previous audit have been addressed. A very serious view will be taken in case of action points which have not been addressed, and will probably result in a poor audit rating. Sanctions may also be applied.

Following the audit, the auditor will complete an audit report and include details of any action points identified during the audit. A copy of this report will subsequently be forwarded to the Test Centre Manager.

8.2. Audit Action Plan

The Test Centre Manager should note any action points recorded in the audit report, and endeavour to implement any recommendations within the stipulated time-frame. A very serious view will be taken in case of action points which are not addressed, and will probably result in a poor audit rating in the following audit. Sanctions may also be applied.



Test Centres which do not comply with the quality standards detailed in this operations manual may be subject to an additional audit visit. All expenses involved in conducting the additional audit visit will be paid by the defaulting Test Centre. ECDL Malta reserves the right to suspend the ECDL accreditation of a Test Centre if there is significant evidence that shortcomings highlighted during the first audit visit are not being addressed successfully.

Records & Files

Once the Test Centre has received the audit report, the Test Centre Manager may proceed with archiving all test session records (i.e. application forms, attendance sheets, certificate delivery notes etc.) up to the audit date.

Test Records Database

Data in the Test Records Database is to be kept indefinitely and records should not be deleted or archived even following receipt of the audit report.



9. Candidates with Special Needs

9.1. Introduction

Persons with special needs can apply for special accommodation when taking ECDL tests. Eligible students would include, but are not limited to, the following:

Candidates who are deaf or who have hearing impairment.

Candidates who are blind or who are visually impaired.

Candidates who have a permanent physical disability.

Candidates who have a permanent medical condition.

Candidates who have specific learning difficulties.

9.2. Accommodations

This accommodation can include extended test time, personal assistance or the use of assistive technology.

ECDL Malta is authorised to approve the following accommodations:

Extra time the normal allocation of extra time is normally 15 minutes, but greater periods may be applicable in exceptional circumstances.

Allocation of a rest period during the test.

Use of assistive technology – explained further in this document.

Enlarged ECDL test paper, or test paper given in various sound formats.

Assistance by an interpreter or reader (in such cases a Candidate must be accommodated in a separate room to prevent disturbance to other Candidates).

Use of an interpreter/signer for the deaf. This must be fully documented – the name of the interpreter must be recorded and stored with the archived test material.

An assistant for help with personal matters during the test. This must not involve help in performing the test.

Use of a separate room (with the authorised Invigilator present during the test).

Testing outside the Test Centre in premises that are adapted to the Candidate's needs, or at the Candidate’s home or school.

Oral test: An oral test is only possible in a theory test; for example in Module 1 or other non-performance based testing. During such testing, the authorised Invigilator must write down exactly what is said and must not change any of the Candidate’s words.



Scribe: Candidates whose ability to write or type is impaired may require a scribe, who will assist in writing down his or her answer. This only applies to Module 1 - Basic Concepts of IT.

Other: Any other accommodation.

9.3. The Application Process

The application Form for Candidates with special needs can be found in Appendix A5.

Candidates should fill in Part I of the Form stating the exact requirements for the specific accommodation. This part of the Form should also be signed by the Test Centre Manager as confirmation that the Centre is aware of and can provide the requested accommodation.

The application must be supported by a written statement from a designated expert in Part II. In the case of learning disabilities this report should be authored by an independent educational or clinical psychologist. The report should not be more than 3 years old.

The completed Form (Parts I and II) should be sent to ECDL Malta at least 15 working days in advance of the intended test date. The application can be sent through the Test Centre Manager, or directly by the Candidate for reasons of confidentiality.

9.4. Confidentiality

Any information and documentation submitted as part of the application for accommodation will be considered as strictly confidential and will not be shared without the Candidate’s written permission. The information will not be shown on either the Candidate's Skills Card or ECDL Certificate.

9.5. Outcome of Application

The outcome of the assessment of the application will be recorded on Part I of the application form, and the Test Centre will be notified by e-mail.

ECDL Malta will retain a copy of Part I and Part II of the application form, together with any supporting documentation submitted by the applicant, for audit purposes.

9.6. Records

The Test Centre should retain a copy of Part I of the application form for audit purposes. This should be archived once the Candidate has completed the certificate and the Centre has been audited.



9.7. Guidelines for Personal Assistance

A Candidate who requires assistance in personal and/or practical ways during the course of a test may require a personal assistant. The personal assistant and the Candidate should be given copies of these guidelines prior to the test.

The personal assistant and the Candidate should be familiar with each other, and as far as possible the Candidate should be allocated the same personal assistant during successive tests.

The personal assistant should sign that s/he attended the test with the Candidate. This record should be kept with the test, but not recorded on the Skills Card.

The personal assistant should not discuss any matters during the test with the Candidate unless such matters relate to the Candidate's need for personal care or assistance with manual tasks.

A personal assistant shall not give factual help or offer suggestions to the Candidate and shall not advise the Candidate on how to perform any task or answer any questions.



10. EqualSkills

10.1. Overview

EqualSkills is an entry-level computer skills certification programme aimed at complete beginners. In contrast to the other certifications there is no test associated with this programme. The course is based upon a workbook and students who successfully complete the workbook are awarded the certificate.

EqualSkills is fully supported by an online portal that manages all administrative requirements involved with the operation of the product. The portal is located at www.equalskills.com.

The portal is the only method by which Test Centres can apply for approval, order Candidate registrations (EEUs), register Facilitators and request certificates.

Once a Test Centre has received approval from ECDL Malta to offer EqualSkills, a username and password will be automatically issued to the person that submitted the application. Only one username and password is issued per Test Centre. Once a Test Centre has used these details to login to the portal it is possible to change the username and password to something more memorable. It is also possible to change the person who has login access. However, only one person per Test Centre is permitted to have this access.

The online portal generates a number of automatic e-mails to notify Test Centres once certain items have been processed. The portal will send this to the e-mail address registered within the online system.

10.2. Facilitators

Test Centres offering the EqualSkills programme must have at least one Facilitator. A Facilitator will guide the Candidate through the EqualSkills programme. They will also sign the relevant page of the workbook as each section is completed. All Facilitators must be registered within the EqualSkills portal prior to signing-off any workbook exercises.

In order to be eligible for registration as a Facilitator, an individual must satisfy the following conditions:

1. the individual must hold the ECDL qualification;

2. the individual must be at least 18 years of age;

3. the individual must have at least 1 year of experience in delivering training.

http://www.equalskills.com/



10.3. Candidate Registration

EqualSkills Evaluation Units (EEUs)

EEUs are electronic Candidate registrations. Each Candidate is registered against an EEU number within the online portal which enables both the Test Centre and ECDL Malta to keep track of a Candidate’s progress.

EEUs must be purchased in multiples of 10. Details of EEU charges may be found in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta. For every EEU, a Test Centre will also receive a paper-based Candidate workbook.

EEUs are non-transferable, once a Candidate has been registered against an EEU number via the online portal it cannot be re-issued to another Candidate. EEUs are not transferable between Test Centres offering EqualSkills.

Registering Candidates

Once an order for EEUs has been processed by ECDL Malta, a series of Candidate registration numbers will be issued to a Test Centre’s record on the online portal. To register Candidates, a Test Centre will need to add each learner’s details (name, surname etc) against the EEU numbers available to it. The Candidate’s details are used for certification purposes. Centres must ensure that the details entered are correct and appear as they should be printed on the certificate.

Candidate Usernames & Passwords

Once a Candidate’s details have been entered into the portal, an automatic username & password will be issued. These will be presented onscreen once the Candidate’s details have been confirmed and submitted. The Test Centre should make a note of these details (or take a screen-print) as they will need to be issued to Candidates. Candidates will use this information to login to the portal and complete some of the exercises of the workbook.

A Candidate’s details can also be viewed at a later stage by viewing an individual’s personal record within the portal using the search facility.

Issuing Workbooks

Once a Candidate has been registered they should be issued with their workbook. This will be their learning record and will contain a number of exercises for the Candidate to complete. On the first page of the workbook the Candidate should record the following details:

EEU number

EqualSkills Centre Name

EqualSkills Centre Number

Candidate’s name

Candidate’s signature



Upon completion of EqualSkills, the workbook should be retained by the Candidate as a record of their training and experience.

10.4. Workbooks

Definition of a Workbook

The workbook is an integral part of the EqualSkills programme as it contains both the basic learning and exercise elements of the product. The EqualSkills workbook contains a number of exercises that the Candidate must work through in order to complete the programme. Whilst some exercises can be completed in a Candidate’s own time, for others the Candidate will need to have the use of the computer and in some cases Internet access.

Once completed, the Candidate should retain the workbook as both a record of their achievement and a reference tool for the future. The last page of the workbook contains a record page. This is where successful completion of workbook exercises is recorded by a Facilitator.

Using the Workbook

Candidates can work through the programme either on their own or with a Facilitator. There are elements within certain exercises which the Facilitator will be required to set-up before the Candidate can complete the programme. These are detailed in the ‘Set-up Instructions for Workbook Exercises’ section (Appendix C8).

It is important to note that there are no formal assessments involved with EqualSkills. Candidates can request assistance from a Facilitator at anytime during the programme. It is important that every Candidate has an understanding of the exercises that they are required to complete. A Facilitator must therefore ensure that any exercises submitted by the Candidate are their own work.

Signing-off Workbook Exercises

At the rear of the Candidate workbook is a removable record page. Once a Candidate has successfully completed a unit, the relevant section on the record page should be signed-off by a Facilitator. The Candidate should sign against the relevant unit, as should the Facilitator. The Facilitator is also required to enter the date of the unit completion. Each completed part of the record page should be over-stamped using the official Centre stamp in order to validate the entry.

Completed Workbooks

Upon completion of all four workbook units and the final assignment, the Facilitator must ensure that all sections have been signed-off on the record page. The Facilitator must then complete the declaration at the foot of the record page before the certificate can be requested via the online portal. Please refer to the ‘Certification’ section for further details on this.

Retention of Materials



The record page of the workbook has been perforated so it can be removed easily. Once a workbook has been fully completed and signed-off, this page should be removed and kept by the Test Centre for its records. These will be subject to inspection by ECDL Malta as part of the Test Centre’s audit visit. Once these have been inspected Test Centres may archive these. However, ECDL Malta reserves the right to take copies of these record pages as a result of an External Verification/Audit visit.

Replacement Workbooks

Should a Candidate lose their workbook prior to completion of the EqualSkills programme, it can be replaced by ECDL Malta.

Depending on the stage of the workbook the Candidate is at, the loss of a workbook may require the Candidate to re-complete some of the exercises. It is therefore pertinent to highlight this to the Candidate when issuing them with their workbook.

It will not be possible to issue Candidates with replacement workbooks once they have successfully completed the programme and have been issued with their certificate as their EEU will no longer be active.

10.5. Certification

Once a Candidate has completed the EqualSkills programme and their workbook has been signed-off by a Facilitator, the Test Centre Manager must request the certificate. This request is made via the online portal by using the ‘Mark as Completed’ function. Candidates will only appear in the ‘Mark Completed’ list if they have been assigned to a Facilitator.

Candidate certificates will be sent to the Test Centre Manager. Certificates are not sent directly to the Candidate for security and audit purposes.

The Test Centre Manager is to sign off receipt of certificates and ensure each Candidate signs off when collecting his or her certificate.



11. ECDL Core

11.1. Overview

The ECDL Core qualification involves seven modules with a separate test for each module. Candidates are issued with a Skills Card and every test successfully passed is recorded on the card. Tests can be taken in any order.

Once assigned to a Candidate, a Skills Card remains valid for a period of three years from the date of the first successful test taken by the Candidate.

On completion of all seven tests, the Candidate will be awarded the ECDL certificate. The ECDL Core certificate awarded is referenced to Level Three of the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF) and the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning.

Note that: The MQF determines the exit points of qualifications. The entry requirements to programmes of study are at the discretion of the education and training providers.

Candidates may also opt for the ECDL Start certificate on completion of any four modules of the ECDL Core programme.

11.2. Invigilators

The prerequisites for the role of Invigilator for ECDL Core are the following:


2. if the Test Centre is making use of manual testing, the individual must in all cases be in possession of either the ECDL Core or the ECDL Expert qualification;

3. if the Test Centre is making use of automated testing, the individual should normally hold the ECDL Core or ECDL Expert qualification but this requirement will be waived if the individual holds an IT diploma or degree.

An Invigilator must be registered with ECDL Malta and must have followed the appropriate invigilator training prior to invigilating tests.

11.3. Purchase & Custody of Skills Cards

The Test Centre is required to maintain records of all Skills Cards that it has purchased, including date of purchase and Skills Cards numbers purchased.

Following receipt of the purchased Skills Cards, these should be securely stored in a lockable cabinet until they are issued to ECDL Candidates. Skills Cards purchased by a Test Centre can only be sold to individual Candidates and it is not permissible for a Centre to transfer Skills Cards to another entity.



11.4. Issuing Skills Cards

A Candidate must be in possession of a valid Skills Card before he or she can sit for a test. Prior to issuing a Skills Card to a Candidate, the Test Centre should fill in the personal details as they appear on the identification document presented by the Candidate. The Candidate should then sign the Skills Card in the appropriate space.

The Test Centre is required to maintain the registration details of all Skills Cards which have been issued, and should e-mail details of new registrations to ECDL Malta. Candidates are to be registered with ECDL Malta using the appropriate registration template before they sit for their first ECDL Core test.

Skills Cards Ownership

Once a Skills Card is issued to a Candidate, it becomes the property of the Candidate. The Candidate is entitled to take the Skills Card and continue the qualification at another Approved Test Centre. A Candidate may not transfer his or her Skills Card to another individual.

11.5. Corrections to Skills Cards

The procedure to be followed in the case where information has been incorrectly entered on a Skills Card is specified in Appendix C4.

The use of corrective fluid (Tippex) or similar materials or mechanisms for correcting mistakes is strictly prohibited. The Skills Card will become invalid through the use of such materials.

11.6. Replacement of Skills Cards

If a Candidate loses his or her Skills Card, a Test Centre can order a replacement from ECDL Malta on behalf of the Candidate. The procedure to be followed is specified in Appendix C5. Applicable charges are specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

This procedure applies only to Skills Cards which have been issued by ECDL Malta, and does not apply to Skills Cards issued by foreign national licensees.

11.7. Change of Candidate Name

If a Candidate’s name changes (e.g. following marriage) after registration but prior to the issue of the final ECDL Core certificate, the Candidate may opt to have his/her new name printed on the final certificate. In such cases, when the Candidate has successfully completed all modules, and the Skills Card is returned to ECDL Malta, a covering letter should be included together with a copy of the official document certifying the change of name (e.g. marriage certificate, or new ID card).



11.8. Signing Off Skills Cards

When a Candidate has successfully completed a module test, the relevant section in their Skills Card should be filled in by the Invigilator to record and certify the result. Alternatively, this section may be filled in by the Test Centre Manager.

Please note the following when registering results:

Authorised ECDL Tester: Name of registered Invigilator.

Software reference: Automated test users should note the provider name and the test version.

Date: the date when the test was taken.

11.9. Failed Tests & Re-sits

Failed tests are NOT recorded in the Skills Card but should be recorded in the Centre’s database.

If a Candidate fails a test, he or she may re-sit the module. Ideally the Candidate should allow an adequate period (for revision purposes) before taking the re-sit.

11.10. Candidates’ Movement between Test Centres

Candidates can sit for ECDL Core tests at any Test Centre of their choice. Occasionally Candidates start their tests in one Test Centre and then they move to other Test Centres. If Test Centres use the same automated testing software, then the Candidate’s details along with test completions would need to be available on the administration system of the second Test Centre. Test Centres are required to follow this process:

1. The second Test Centre is requested to send an email to the automated testing software provider with the following details:

Candidate’s Name

Candidate’s Surname

Skills Card No.

Identity Card No.

2. The automated testing provider will inform the first Test Centre that the Candidate will be released from its administration system.

3. The automated testing provider will add the Candidate details to the administration system of the second Test Centre.

All Test Centres are expected to cooperate and facilitate the process of candidates’ movements between Test Centres.



11.11. Certification

When a Candidate has successfully completed all seven ECDL modules, the Candidate’s Skills Card, together with a copy of proof of identity, should be returned to the ECDL Malta office so that a certificate may be issued. The responsibility for returning the Skills Cards lies with the Centre where a Candidate has sat for their final test.

The Skills Cards will be processed and Candidate certificates will be forwarded to the Test Centre Manager. Certificates are not sent directly to the Candidate for security and audit purposes.


11.12. Certification – ECDL Start

Candidates have the option of requesting an ECDL Start certificate after having successfully completed any four modules of the ECDL Core programme.

The Candidate will still have the option of obtaining the full certificate once all modules have been passed. However, this will only be issued against payment of an additional charge as specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

Candidates requesting the ECDL Start certificate should follow the same procedures as for the ECDL Core to obtain their certificate.

A clear note must be attached indicating that the Candidate is applying for an ECDL Start certificate.

All Skills Cards must be verified by ECDL Malta before any certificates are issued.



12. ECDL Advanced & Expert

12.1. Overview

ECDL Advanced is a higher-level programme that builds on the skills covered in the ECDL Core qualification. The programme consists of four modules:

AM3 Word Processing,

AM4 Spreadsheets,

AM5 Database;

AM6 Presentation.

A certificate is provided to Candidates for each test passed successfully. Test centres licensed to offer ECDL Advanced testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests.

A Candidate is awarded an ECDL Expert Certificate upon successful completion of all four ECDL Advanced modules. The Expert Certificate is referenced to Level Four of the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF) and the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning.

Note that: The MQF determines the exit points of qualifications. The entry requirements to programmes of study are at the discretion of the education and training providers.

12.2. Invigilators

The prerequisites for the role of Invigilator at ECDL Advanced level are the following:

1. the individual must hold the ECDL Advanced Expert qualification;

2. the individual must have at least six months experience as an ECDL Core invigilator.

An Invigilator must be registered with the ECDL Malta office and must have followed the appropriate advanced invigilator training prior to invigilating tests.

12.3. Advanced Registration Numbers

Skills Cards are not used in the administration of ECDL Advanced Tests. However, Test Centres are required to purchase Registration Numbers from ECDL Malta prior to conducting such tests.

The format of the Registration Numbers is as follows:

MT6 # # # # # .

Candidates who have registered for an Advanced module at one Test Centre may not use their Registration Number to sit for a test at a different Centre.



12.4. Purchasing Advanced Registration Numbers

The Test Centre purchases Advanced Registration Numbers by sending an e-mail to the ECDL Malta at [email protected]. The subject of the e-mail should be “ECDLA Registration Number Order”.

Registration Numbers must be ordered in multiples of five. Registration Numbers may be used for testing any advanced module – this will be determined at the Candidate registration stage.

Upon receipt of the purchase order, ECDL Malta will allocate the required Registration Numbers and test units in the automated testing software. An equivalent number of ECDL Advanced automated diagnostic tests will be added. The Test Centre will receive an e-mail with the relevant details. ECDL Advanced tests are purchased through ECDL Malta only.

Advanced Registration Charges

Details of Advanced Registration Number & ECDL Advanced charges may be found in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta. The fee of one Advanced Registration Number and 1 ECDL Advanced test incorporates one automated diagnostic test.

12.5. Registration of Candidates & Test Sessions

The Test Centre is required to maintain the registration details of all Advanced Registration Numbers which have been issued, and should e-mail details of new registrations to ECDL Malta. Candidates are to be registered with ECDL Malta using the appropriate registration template before they sit for the test.

The Test Centre registers the Candidate on the administrator interface of the automated testing software. The following details must be entered:

Advanced Registration Number;

Candidate’s Name;

Candidate’s Surname;

Identity Card No.;

Address &

Date of Birth.

The Test Centre is encouraged to send a paper or soft copy of the Candidate’s proof of identity before the Candidate sits for a test. This will minimise unnecessary delays in issuing certificates. ECDL Malta requires proof of identity before issuing certificates.

Prior to the test session, the Test Centre uses the automated testing software to allocate the appropriate test to the Candidate. The Candidate sits for the tests. The result will be displayed at the end of the test.




12.6. Re-sits

If a Candidate fails a test, s/he retains his/her registration number and re-sit the module at the same Test Centre. It is not permissible for a Candidate to use his/her registration number to sit for a test at another Centre.

Test Centres purchase resit test units in multiples of five by sending an e-mail to ECDL Malta at [email protected]. The subject of the e-mail should be “ECDLA Resits Order”.

Upon receipt of the purchase order, the ECDL Malta will allocate the resit test units and an equivalent number of diagnostic tests in the automated testing software. The Test Centre will receive an e-mail with the relevant details. ECDL Advanced resit tests are purchased through ECDL Malta only.

The charges payable to ECDL Malta for re-sits are specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

12.7. Certification

The Test Centre sends an e-mail to ECDL Malta at [email protected] with details of the Candidate/s who has successfully completed an advanced module/s so that a certificate can be issued. The subject of the e-mail should be “ECDLA Certificate Request”.

The following details must be included in the email:

Advanced Registration Number of Module;

Candidate’s Name;

Candidate’s Surname &

Candidate ID no.

A paper or soft copy of the Candidate’s proof of identity will also be required by ECDL Malta prior to the issuing of the certificate.

Candidate certificates will be forwarded to the Test Centre Manager. Certificates are not sent directly to the Candidate for security and audit purposes.

The Test Centre Manager is to sign off receipt of certificates and ensure that each Candidate signs off when collecting his or her certificate.

12.8. ECDL Expert Certification

A Candidate is awarded an ECDL Expert Certificate upon successful completion of all ECDL Advanced modules (AM3, AM4, AM5 & AM6). The ECDL Expert Certificate is awarded at no cost.

The Test Centre where the Candidate successfully completes the last ECDL Advanced test shall send an e-mail to the ECDL Malta at [email protected] requesting it to issue the ECDL Expert Certificate for the Candidate. The e-mail subject shall be “ECDL Expert Certificate Request”






The e-mail shall include a list of Candidates with the following details:

Candidate’s Name;

Candidate’s Surname;

Candidate ID no. &

Advanced Registration Numbers of all 4 Modules.

Candidate certificates will be forwarded to the Test Centre Manager. Certificates are not sent directly to the Candidate for security and audit purposes.




13. ECDL Image Editing & Web Editing

13.1. Overview

ECDL Image Editing

ECDL Image Editing has been specifically designed for anyone who wants to acquire the skills to work with digital images, without having to commit to the time and expense of a professional-level digital image editing certification.

Test centres licensed to offer ECDL Image Editing testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests. Test files are then forwarded to ECDL Malta for marking.


ECDL Web Editing

ECDL Web Editing is a new certification designed to give you the basic skills required to design and create a simple web site. Test centres licensed to offer ECDL Web Editing testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests. Test files are then forwarded to ECDL Malta for marking.


13.2. Invigilators

The prerequisites for the role of Invigilator are the following:

1. the individual must be in possession of both ECDL Image Editing and ECDL Web Editing qualifications;


An Invigilator must be registered with ECDL Malta and must have followed the appropriate Invigilator training prior to invigilating tests.

13.3. Registration Numbers

Test Centres are required to purchase Registration Numbers from ECDL Malta prior to conducting tests. ECDL Malta will assign Registration Numbers with the following format:

Web Editing: MT7# # # # #WE

Image Editing: MT8# # # # #IE

Candidates who registered for a Registration Number at one Test Centre may not use their registration number to sit a test at a different Centre.



13.4. Purchasing Registration Numbers

A Test Centre may purchase Registration Numbers from ECDL Malta by sending an e-mail to the ECDL office. Registration Numbers must be ordered in multiples of five.

Please ensure that the following details are included with the order:

1. Test Centre name and ID code;

2. Test Centre Manager name and contact number;

3. Type and number of Registration Numbers required.

Registration Number Charges

Details of Registration Number charges may be found in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

Registration Numbers

Upon receipt of the purchase order and payment, the ECDL Malta office will allocate the required registration numbers and will e-mail details of the assigned numbers to the Test Centre. Test Centres are required to keep a record of the allocated registration numbers.

13.5. Marking of Tests

The marking of ECDL Image Editing and ECDL Web Editing tests is carried out by the ECDL Malta Marking Team. The procedure to be followed is outlined below:

1. At the end of the test, the Test Centre should create an archive/zip file (using a compression utility such as WinZip) containing all result files generated by a particular Candidate during the test. The zip file name should be a combination of the Candidate’s Registration Number and the module code e.g. MT700123IM.zip

2. The Test Centre should then transmit the zip file to the ECDL Malta office by e-mail addressed to [email protected]. The subject of the e-mail should be “Image Editing Test Files” or “Web Editing Test files”.

Several Candidate files can be e-mailed together, but the aggregate file size should not exceed 5Mb in total for practical purposes.

The e-mail should also include an attached file with filename “Image Editing Test Data” or “Web Editing Test Data” with the details specified in Appendix B3.

3. ECDL Malta will acknowledge receipt of test files by return e-mail.




4. Once the test results have been marked, ECDL Malta will advise the Test Centre of the result via e-mail. In the case of an unsuccessful result, the e-mail will include a test report indicating the Candidate’s weaknesses.

5. In the case of a successful result, ECDL Malta will automatically deliver the Candidate certificates to the Test Centre.

13.6. Re-sits

If a Candidate fails a test, they may retain their registration number and re-sit the module at the same Test Centre. It is not permissible for Candidates to use their registration number to sit for a test at another Centre.

The following conditions apply when holding re-sits:

When a Candidate is taking a re-sit, the Test Centre should ensure that the Candidate is not given a test paper that he or she was given in a previous test.


The procedure for processing of the re-sit test files is identical to that specified previously.

13.7. Certification

ECDL Malta will automatically forward the certificate to the relevant Test Centre after marking in the case of a positive outcome.

This will happen provided the Test Centre had forwarded a paper copy of the Candidate’s proof of identity to the ECDL Malta office as specified in section 5.1.





14. ECDL CAD

14.1. Overview

ECDL CAD is an introductory level certification covering two-dimensional design targeting engineering or architectural students or Candidates who require a general grounding in CAD.

Test centres licensed to offer ECDL CAD testing are responsible for registering Candidates and conducting tests. Test files are then forwarded to ECDL Malta for marking.


14.2. Invigilators

The prerequisites for the role of Invigilator are the following:

1. the individual must be in possession of the ECDL CAD qualification;


An Invigilator must be registered with ECDL Malta and must have followed the appropriate Invigilator training prior to invigilating tests.

14.3. Registration Numbers

Test Centres are required to purchase Registration Numbers from ECDL Malta prior to conducting tests. ECDL Malta will assign Registration Numbers with the following format:

CAD MT9# # # # #CAD

Candidates who registered for a Registration Number at one Test Centre may not use their registration number to sit a test at a different Centre.

14.4. Purchasing Registration Numbers

A Test Centre may purchase Registration Numbers from ECDL Malta by sending an e-mail to the ECDL office. Registration Numbers must be ordered in multiples of five.

Please ensure that the following details are included with the order:

1. Test Centre name and ID code;

2. Test Centre Manager name and contact number;

3. Type and number of Registration Numbers required.

Registration Number Charges

Details of Registration Number charges may be found in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.



Registration Numbers

Upon receipt of the purchase order and payment, the ECDL Malta office will allocate the required registration numbers and will e-mail details of the assigned numbers to the Test Centre. Test Centres are required to keep a record of the allocated registration numbers.

14.5. Marking of Tests

The marking of ECDL CAD tests are carried out by the ECDL Malta Marking Team. The procedure to be followed is outlined below:

1. At the end of the test, the Test Centre should create an archive/zip file (using a compression utility such as WinZip) containing all result files generated by a particular Candidate during the test. The zip file name should be a combination of the Candidate’s Registration Number and the module code e.g. MT900123ICAD.zip

2. The Test Centre should then transmit the zip file to the ECDL Malta office by e-mail addressed to [email protected]. The subject of the e-mail should be “CAD Test Files”.

Several Candidate files can be e-mailed together, but the aggregate file size should not exceed 5Mb in total for practical purposes.

The e-mail should also include an attached file with filename “CAD Test Data” with the details specified in Appendix B3.

3. ECDL Malta will acknowledge receipt of test files by return e-mail.

4. Once the test results have been marked, ECDL Malta will advise the Test Centre of the result via e-mail. In the case of an unsuccessful result, the e-mail will include a test report indicating the Candidate’s weaknesses.

5. In the case of a successful result, ECDL Malta will automatically issue the Candidate certificates to the Test Centre.

14.6. Re-sits

If a Candidate fails a test, they may retain their registration number and re-sit the module at the same Test Centre. It is not permissible for Candidates to use their registration number to sit for a test at another Centre.

The following conditions apply when holding re-sits:

When a Candidate is taking a re-sit, the Test Centre should ensure that the Candidate is not given a test paper that he or she was given in a previous test.





The procedure for processing of the re-sit test files is identical to that specified previously.

14.7. Certification

ECDL Malta will automatically forward the certificate to the relevant Test Centre after marking in the case of a positive outcome.

This will happen provided the Test Centre had forwarded a paper copy of the Candidate’s proof of identity to the ECDL Malta office as specified in section 5.1.





Appendix A: Forms & Templates

Appendix A1: EqualSkills Facilitator/Invigilator Application Form

For Office Use Only

Date Application Received

Date when applicant attended ECDL Malta training

Date applicant has been registered as invigilator

Outcome of application and comments (if applicable)

Accepted Rejected

Categories EqualSkills Facilitator

ECDL Core Invigilator

ECDL Advanced Invigilator

ECDL Image Editing Invigilator

ECDL Web Editing Invigilator

ECDL CAD Invigilator

1. Test Centre Details

Test Centre Name

Test Centre Reference No

2. Facilitator / Invigilator Details

Surname

Name

ID Card No

Date of Birth

Job Title at Test Centre

Employment Status at Test Centre Full time Part-time

Telephone

E-mail



3. Application Details

Tick the category you are applying for in the first column.

Enter your ECDL Skills Card No or Registration number N

o

EqualSkills Facilitator ECDL Skills Card No

ECDL Core Invigilator ECDL Skill Card No


Registration No WP

Registration No SS

Registration No DB

Registration No PP

ECDL Image Editing Invigilator Registration No IE

ECDL Web Editing Invigilator Registration No WE

ECDL CAD Invigilator Registration No CAD

4. Academic Background (for initial application only)

Education Background Secondary Post Secondary University

List computer certification, qualifications or related IT experience that you have.

Have you administered a recognised computer test or qualification?

Yes No

If you answered yes to the above, please indicate the name(s) of the test(s) or qualification(s)



5. Declaration

I, the undersigned confirm that the information given is true and correct.

Signature: ____________________________ Date: ____________________________

6. Recommendation (to be completed by Test Centre Manager)

I, the undersigned recommend __________________________________________________

(name & surname of applicant) to be registered as

EqualSkills Facilitator

ECDL Core Invigilator


ECDL Image Editing Invigilator

Web Editing Invigilator

ECDL CAD Invigilator

Name & Surname: _________________________________ ID Card No: ________________

Signature: _______________________________________ Date: _____________________

ECDL Malta collects personal information to carry out its functions. All data is collected and processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2001.



Appendix A2: New Product Application Form

For Office Use Only

Date application received

Date application processed

Recommendation

ECDL Officer

Application Details

Test Centre name

Test Centre reference no

Test Centre Manager

Please enter the category you are applying for in the section below.

ECDL Core

ECDL Advanced

ECDL Image Editing

ECDL Web Editing

ECDL CAD

Invigilator 1 Name: ID:

Invigilator 2 Name: ID:




Appendix A3: Testing Location Application Form

For Office Use Only

Date application received

Centre reference number

Date of site visit

Accreditation Officer

Recommendation

Signature

Test Centre Details (to be filled in by Test Centre submitting application)

Test Centre Name

Test Centre Manager

Telephone

Application date

Location category □ Test Centre Branch □ External Testing Location

I have read and understood the regulations applicable to operation of Testing Locations contained in the ECDL Operations manual and agree to abide by these regulations.

Signature



Testing Location Details (to be filled in by external location representative)

Organisation name

Address

Town Postcode

Contact Person

Job Title

Telephone Fax.

E-mail

Organisation url

Category Private training provider School

Government body NGO

Company

Other _____________________

Conditions applicable to external testing locations:

1. Testing at the external testing location can only be offered to employees (in the case of a business) or students (in the case of a school) of that organisation and it is not permissible to offer testing to other individuals.

2. Autonomous entities registered as external testing locations are not allowed to make use of ECDL logos in their advertising.

3. Autonomous entities registered as external testing locations are obliged to subscribe to the standard requirements of ECDL Approved Test Centres including Health & Safety Standards (Appendix C1), Equal Opportunities Policy (Appendix C7) and Appeals Procedure (Appendix C3).

I have read and understood the regulations applicable to operation of Testing Locations and agree to abide by these regulations.

Signature



Appendix A4: ECDL Test Attendance Sheet

Test Centre name and ID Test date Invigilator name

Location Invigilator signature

Candidate name Certification Reg/Skillscard No Start time Signature

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.



Appendix A5: Application for Persons with Special Needs

Information on this form is used internally within ECDL only and will not be shown on either the Candidate's Skills Card or ECDL Certificate.

For office use only

ECDL MALTA OFFICE official stamp

Assessed by

Signature

Additional time granted No Yes ________ minutes

Rest period during test No Yes ________ minutes

Separate testing room No Yes

Enlarged test paper No Yes

Reader No Yes

Scribe (module 1 only) No Yes

Testing location No Yes

Auxiliary equipment No Yes

Other (please specify) No Yes

Part I: Candidate details and Accommodation request

Test Centre name and ID

Application date

Centre Manager’s signature

Candidate’s signature

Candidate Name

Skills Card number ID Card No.

Telephone No. Date of Birth

E-mail Address

Candidate Address



Accommodation requested

Planned qualification – modules and dates

Method of test Manual Online test

Additional time requested No Yes ________ minutes

Rest period during test No Yes ________ minutes

Separate testing room required No Yes

Enlarged test paper No Yes

Reader No Yes

Scribe (module 1 only) No Yes

Testing location (give details) No Yes

Auxiliary equipment (give details) No Yes

Other (give details) No Yes



Part II: Certification by Independent Expert

I have known _______________________________ for _____________ years in

my capacity as _________________________________________ (professional title).

Details of disability

Learning Physical Visual Hearing Other

Mild Moderate Moderately severe Severe

Description and area of difficulty. In the case of Candidates with a learning disability this section should include a detailed assessment of the Candidate’s disabilities and needs.

I have read the accompanying description and understand the nature of the test(s) to be administered, and I certify that I have documentation on record supporting the need for accommodation.

I believe that this applicant should be provided with the accommodations requested in Part I of this application.

Professional’s name and title

Signature

Date




Appendix B: Data Record Specifications

Appendix B1: Candidate Registration Details

ECDL Malta provides a standard spreadsheet to all Test Centres for the purpose of recording the required Candidate registration details. Please do not add any extra rows, columns or borders to the spreadsheet as this will make it invalid.

The required details are as follows:

Test Centre Number

Skills Card / Registration number

Qualification 1

ID Card number 2

Candidate Title

Candidate First name

Candidate Surname

House Number or Name.

Street Name

Locality

Postcode

Candidate Date of Birth (dd/mmm/yyyy)

Date of Registration (dd/mmm/yyyy)

Date of purchase of from ECDL Malta.

Notes:

1. The Qualification field should be filled in according to the following table:

Relevant Qualification Entry

ECDL Core Core

Advanced Word Processing WP

Advanced Spreadsheets SS

Advanced Database DB

Advanced Presentation PP

Image Editing IE

Web Editing WE

CAD CAD

2. ID Card number in the case of Maltese nationals, ID Card number of Passport number otherwise.



Appendix B2: Test Records Database

The following details must be recorded in the test records database:

Candidate’s Name & Surname

ID Card No (or Passport number in the case of foreign nationals)

Test date & time

Test Location

Invigilator’s Name

Registration Number (Skills Card number for Core)

Qualification (Core, WP, SS, DB, PP, IE, WE or CAD)

Module taken

Test Paper Version taken

Test Result



Appendix B3: Test Results Covering Note

The following details must be included when e-mailing test results to the ECDL Malta office for marking:

1. Test Centre Number

2. Registration Number

3. Qualification (IE, WE or CAD)

4. Candidate’s Name & Surname

5. ID Card No (or Passport number in the case of foreign nationals)

6. Test Version taken

7. Test date

8. Test time

9. First test / re-sit



Appendix C: Standards & Procedures

Appendix C1: Test Environment Standards

Testing can only be carried out in an environment which meets the standard requirements of ECDL Malta and in a registered location.

Health & Safety Standards

The testing environment must satisfy the health and safety standards set by the local authorities. Test Centre staff should ensure that the environment meets the following requirements before commencing tests:

Fire equipment (fire alarms, smoke and heat detectors, fire extinguishers etc.) is in order and fully operational.

Fire escape routes are clear and operational ensuring that the fire escape routes are clearly marked and are not blocked. Fire exit doors must not be locked.

All equipment is electrically safe and there are no trip hazards (trailing leads and cables must be securely fixed).

Test Conditions

ECDL tests must be held in a quiet environment, preferably a closed room, where the Candidates can work with minimum noise disturbance.

All workstations (computers) and printing equipment must be in good working order and suitable for ECDL tests.

It is recommended that adjacent test workstations are at least one (1m) apart. This ensures that Candidates work through tests in isolation and monitors or screens are not overlooked by neighbouring Candidates. If the recommended spacing requirement cannot be physically implemented, one or a combination of the following alternative methods should be used:

Alternate workstations should be used.

Candidates sitting on adjacent workstations will work on different test modules.

Candidates sitting on adjacent workstations will work on different test versions of the same module.



Appendix C2: Courseware Standards

Conditions of Use

1. Content

The courseware should be sufficient to prepare the student for the relevant ECDL certification test.

The courseware should adequately cover all the syllabus items.

The courseware should be pitched at the correct technical level.

When a certification contains more than one module (e.g. ECDL Core), knowledge areas and skills that appear as syllabus items in more than one module (e.g. example, copying and help) must be treated in a similar way and at the same level of detail in the courseware relevant for each module.

Additional information not stipulated in the syllabus may be included.

2. Exercises

The courseware should include an adequate number of exercises.

No more than 15 exercise items should be presented together at any one time.

The exercises should not have the same look and format as the ECDL test papers.

The exercises should not suggest that successful completion of these items equates to certification.

3. Quality

The text (grammar, spelling) should be of a high standard, since poor writing impacts on the ability of the user to learn from the courseware.

Any images or graphics included in the courseware should be of good quality.

The terminology used in the courseware should be consistent throughout, and should reflect current usage.

Information shown in section labels should be relevant in the context of what is being demonstrated. For example, a section label “Formatting” would be inappropriate if mail merge is being covered.

The layout of the courseware should be attractive and easy to follow.

The table of contents should correctly list the sections of the courseware.



4. Limitations

The ECDL logo should not appear on the training material unless the material has approved courseware status from the ECDL Foundation

Exercise items in the courseware should not be described as “test(s)”, assessment(s)”, or “certification”.

The terms “pre-test” and “post-test” or “pre-assessment” and “post-assessment” should not be used.

Specific Requirements for ECDL Core & ECDL Advanced

A.1 Multiple Paths

When multiple functionality paths exist, these should be included in the courseware. One path must be demonstrated, while subsequent paths need only be described. For example, it may be possible to underline selected text in a number of ways such as:

1. Clicking on the toolbar button.

2. Pressing CTRL + U.

3. Clicking the right mouse button, selecting Font, and selecting underline style.

4. Pressing ALT + O, pressing F, and selecting the underline style.

5. Clicking on the Format menu, clicking Font, and selecting the underline style.

A.2 Shortcut Keys

If shortcut keys are not included as one of the paths taught, a list of the main shortcut procedures must be presented at some point in the module. At a minimum, the following shortcuts need to be included in ECDL Core modules 3 to 7:

1. Keystroke combination to cut.

2. Keystroke combination to copy.

3. Keystroke combination to paste.

4. Keystroke combination to save.

5. Keystroke combination to print.

6. Keystroke combination to open.

7. Keystroke combination to close.

At a minimum, the following shortcuts need to be included in ECDL Core module 2:

1. Keystroke combination to cut.

2. Keystroke combination to copy.

3. Keystroke combination to paste.



4. Keystroke combination to switch between open windows.

A.3 Recommended Volume of Courseware

While it is difficult to offer guidance regarding the recommended volume of courseware required to cover the Syllabus, it would be expected that courseware would approximate to the volumes outlined below:

Courseware Type

CBT or multimedia

Book or other printed matter

Video and accompanying workbook

Guideline

Volume

300 screens

100 pages

1 hours



Appendix C3: Candidate Appeals Procedure

The standard ECDL Malta Appeals procedure is specified below:

Escalation Procedure

1. Verbal Appeal

A Candidate who is unhappy with any aspect of the testing and marking process should first discuss the problem with the Test Centre Manager within 7 days of receiving their result. The reasons must be made clear by the Candidate at this time.

2. Written Appeal

If the Candidate is not satisfied with the outcome of the verbal appeal, he or she may raise a formal appeal to the Test Centre. This should be made in writing or using e-mail to the Centre Manager within 14 days of receiving the result, outlining clearly the circumstances of the appeal.

The Test Centre Manager shall reply to the Candidate in writing within 7 days of receiving the appeal.

3. Appeal to ECDL Malta

If the Candidate is still not satisfied, he or she has the right to appeal to ECDL Malta. This may be done via the Centre Manager or directly to the ECDL Malta in writing, who will then investigate the circumstances of the appeal.

ECDL Malta will communicate its decision to the Candidate in writing. The decision of ECDL Malta will be final.



Appendix C4: Correction of Skills Cards

This procedure provides guidelines on the steps to be followed in the case where information has been incorrectly entered on a Skills Card, and needs to be corrected.

Use of Corrective Fluid

The use of corrective fluid (Tippex) or similar materials or mechanisms for correcting mistakes is strictly prohibited. The Skills Card will become invalid with the use of such materials.

Minor Corrections

The term “minor corrections” refers to instances where isolated words or figures have been incorrectly recorded and need to be rewritten, or where words have been entered in the wrong field. Provided that the remaining available space is sufficient for entering the correct information so that it is clearly legible, the error may be corrected as explained below. Such corrections may only be made by an authorised Test Centre representative or an ECDL Malta officer.

The error shall be corrected as follows:

1. The incorrect words or figures shall be neatly crossed out as shown below;

2. The authorised Test Centre representative or ECDL officer making the corrections shall print his or her name and countersign close to the deleted text.

Name: Joseph Xerri Scerri

Major Corrections, Damage and Defacement

In the case where a Skills Card has been damaged or defaced, or where information has been entered incorrectly such that it cannot be easily amended, the Skills Card should be returned to the ECDL Malta office for replacement. Applicable charges are specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

This procedure applies only to Skills Cards which have been issued by ECDL Malta, and does not apply to Skills Cards or Logbooks issued by foreign national licensees.



The procedure is as follows:

1. Return Skills Card to ECDL Malta

ECDL Malta shall be notified of the incident and the Skills Card shall be returned. This will normally be performed by the Test Centre responsible for entering the incorrect information, or alternatively by the Test Centre which issued the Skills Card in cases of damage or defacement.

2. Issue Replacement

ECDL Malta officer shall issue a new unnumbered Skills Card, enter the serial number of the returned Skills Card manually, countersign the Skills Card and stamp it with the official stamp close to the serial number.

ECDL Malta officer shall then transfer the personal details from the old to the new Skills Card, and sign and stamp all entries as appropriate.

3. Transfer of test results

ECDL Malta officer shall decide on the best manner for transferring the test results from the old to the new Skills Card.

If all tests were conducted at the Centre which returned the Skills Card, it would be appropriate to send the Skills Card back to the Centre to have the details filled in by that Centre. In other cases, it might be appropriate for the ECDL officer to fill in all or part of the test results on the new Skills Card and sign and stamp all entries.

4. Return Skills Card to Centre

ECDL Malta officer will inform the Test Centre to collect the new Skills Card.



Appendix C5: Replacement of Skills Cards

If a Candidate loses his or her Skills Card, a Test Centre can order a replacement from ECDL Malta on behalf of the Candidate. Applicable charges are specified in the Schedule of Fees available from ECDL Malta.

This procedure applies only to Skills Cards which have been issued by ECDL Malta, and does not apply to Skills Cards issued by foreign national licensees.

The procedure to be followed is specified below.

1. Advise ECDL Malta

The Test Centre or Candidate shall notify ECDL Malta in writing, and shall provide all the registration details of the lost Skills Card including Skills Card number, Candidate ID card number, Candidate name and surname, Candidate address, nationality and date of birth.

2. Confirm Personal Details

ECDL Malta officer shall confirm that the registration details tally with the ECDL database, and if necessary shall liaise with the advising party to clarify any discrepancy.

3. Issue Replacement

ECDL Malta officer shall issue a new unnumbered Skills Card, enter the serial number of the lost Skills Card manually, countersign the Skills Card close to the serial number.

The officer shall then enter the personal details in the appropriate section of the new Skills Card.

The Skills Card shall be overprinted with the word “Replacement”.

4. Return Skills Card to Centre

The new Skills Card should be collected by the Test Centre, together with a covering letter addressed to Test Centres advising that the Skills Card has been lost and replaced, and authorising Test Centres to fill in previous test results on the new Skills Card.

5. Filling in Test Results

Once the replacement Skills Card is returned to the Candidate, it is up to the Candidate to approach the Test Centre (or Test Centres) where he or she sat for tests and ask the relevant Centre or Centres to register past test results on the replacement Skills Card, and presenting the covering letter issued by ECDL Malta as authorisation.



Personal Representation

In cases where it is not possible for a Skills Card bearer to be represented by an Approved Test Centre for the purpose of this procedure, the Candidate may deal directly with ECDL Malta.



Appendix C6: Test Regulations

1. Only test papers and the floppy disk (or any other removable disk) provided by Test Centre can be used. No books or other media can be used during the test.

2. You are reminded to switch off your mobile phone/s.

3. You are forbidden to talk to each other during the test.

4. You are forbidden to observe each other’s work.

5. You can only address the Invigilator for clarification of instructions or if technical problems (e.g. hardware or software failures) arise. You are not allowed to ask the Invigilator about a test question.

6. You are allowed to use the application’s ‘online help’.

7. It is recommended that you work through the questions in sequence.

8. You are reminded to periodically save your work during the test.

9. The duration of the test is ___________. You will be reminded about the time approximately 5 minutes before the end of the test session.

10. You are reminded to note the position of the clock. When you are told that the time is up, you must immediately save and close your workfiles. The modification time of workfiles is checked during marking and your test may be invalidated if the modification time shows that you have exceeded the allotted time.

11. All test papers and the floppy disk (or any other removable disk) will be collected at the end of the test.

12. If you are caught breaking any of the above rules your test will be cancelled.



Appendix C7: Equal Opportunities Policy

The minimum requirement for an ECDL Test Centre’s Equal Opportunities policy is detailed below:

The Test Centre is committed to seeking equality of opportunity for all, irrespective of race, gender, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, age, class or disability.

The Test Centre actively seeks to demonstrate this commitment by adopting policies, codes of practice and action plans to combat discrimination in any form.

Staff and candidates are required to reflect their commitment to equality of opportunities and anti-discriminatory practices.

The Test Centre will promote equality of opportunity for all candidates and staff by:

Demonstrating opposition to all forms of discrimination in every aspect of its operations.

Identifying and removing practices and procedures which unfairly discriminate

Increasing awareness and positive attitudes at all levels in the Test Centre toward people experiencing discrimination

Creating a welcoming atmosphere for all candidates, staff and visitors

Monitoring all operations to ensure no form of discrimination or harassment is taking place

Provision will be made for candidates who require reasonable

adjustments to be made by providing suitable assessment locations and technical aids where appropriate.

This provision is regularly monitored and reviewed by your named quality assurance representative.



Appendix C8: Set-up Instructions for EqualSkills Workbook Exercises

Preparation

There are a number of exercises in the EqualSkills workbook that will require the Candidate to have access to certain facilities on a PC. It is therefore important that the Facilitator reads through the workbook to ensure the correct set-up is completed before the Candidate undertakes the exercises.

Desktop Exercises

The Desktop - For easy identification by the Candidate, the desktop should include the standard Microsoft Windows icons for:

My Computer

My Documents

My Network Places

Recycle Bin

The Facilitator should ensure that Microsoft Word is easily available for use by the Candidate.

My Documents - The following files must be made available to the Candidate within the ‘My Documents’ folder:

A Microsoft Word document

A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet

A Microsoft Access file

A graphic file

A sound file

World Wide Web Exercises

There are a number of exercises in the workbook that require completion online, it is therefore imperative that Internet access is enabled on all PCs designated for Candidate’s use.

Homepage - The default homepage for this section should be a suitable website that contains a number of hyperlinks to enable the Candidate to demonstrate their newly acquired skills.



Candidate Password - One of the online exercises requires the Candidate to access the EqualSkills online portal and either modify or add some additional information to their records. In order to complete this correctly the Candidate will need to login to the portal. For this the Candidate will require a username and password. The username will be the Candidate’s EEU number which they will be able to obtain by looking at the relevant page of their workbook. The password issued when the candidate was registered on the online portal should be supplied to the candidate by the Test Centre. Part of the exercise will enable the Candidate to change their password if they so desire. Facilitators must tell the Candidate that they should make a note of this amended password as they will require it for future use.

General Web Exercises - For this section the Facilitator should prepare a list of websites for Candidates to use whilst performing the workbook exercises. These can be selected by the Test Centre and provided to the Candidate by the Facilitator and should provide the Candidate with opportunities to complete the online exercises. This is particularly pertinent for the exercises that follow the interaction with the EqualSkills online portal.

Search Engine - For this section the Facilitator should choose a suitable search engine for the Candidate to use. The Facilitator should supply the URL to the Candidate once they reach that exercise in the workbook. To avoid confusion, it may be pertinent to use one of the example search engines detailed in the workbook.

E-mail Exercises

This section of the workbook will require the Candidate to send and receive e-mails. It is suggested that the Facilitator should set up some generic e-mail addresses via a web-based provider for use during these exercises.

Candidate E-mail Account - One of the exercises in this section requires the Candidate to set up their own e-mail account so that they can send and receive e-mails. The Facilitator should have a list of web-based e-mail providers that can be recommended to the Candidate at the relevant time.

For those organisations that do not permit the use of web-based e-mail accounts, it is permissible to use in-house e-mail systems. This is only permissible if the Candidate is able to use the system to demonstrate the full range of required skills in order to complete the exercises. All Candidates should also have an understanding of the principles and common methods used to set-up web-based e-mail accounts, even though they may not use them to complete all of their exercises.

E-mail Addresses the Candidate can send to - The Candidate will be required to send e-mails as part of this section of the workbook. These addresses should be



supplied to the Candidate by the Facilitator who should have access to the e-mail accounts to verify that they have been sent correctly.

Facilitator E-mail Address - The Candidate will also be required to reply to an e-mail sent to them by the Facilitator. This can be any e-mail address the Facilitator has access to.

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