Quality Assurance

D8CEC is a QQI Quality Assured Centre. We aim to continuously deliver a high standard of courses that meet the demand of our community in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Components for QQI Certification

Assessment differs on every QQI Component, but you tutor will explain everything to you. If you are falling behind with your work, please contact your tutor who can help, and you can apply for more time to complete your assessment work if necessary.

Programme Admissions, Access, Transfer and Progression Policy & Procedure

Recognition of Prior Learning Policy & Procedure

 

Information on each Accredited QQI course

delivered in D8CEC CLG

 

Beginner Computers

Learning About Computers leading to QQI Level 3 Component:

Computer Literacy 3N0881

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to describe the role of computers in everyday life and to operate a personal computer safely in a supervised environment.

Computer Literacy QQI Level 3 – This course is for complete beginners and will start with the basic knowledge of the computer.  The learner will attend class for 2 hours per week. This course covers the following –

• Microsoft Word

         Enter & edit text, copy, cut, paste, change font/colour/size, insert images

• Microsoft PowerPoint

         Design a presentation, enter text – images etc.

• Microsoft Publisher

         Use existing template, change font, background colour, insert images etc.

• Internet

         Send/ receive emails, attach files etc.

• File Management

         File, Save, Save as. Create folders, move documents etc.

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline how Information Technology affects everyday life to include social networking, e-commerce, eGovernment and e-Learning
• Explain commonplace Information Technology concepts and terminology relating to computer types, computer hardware, application software, and the internet
• Describe the health, safety and personal hygiene considerations of working with computers
• Describe information security considerations including password protection, viruses, and provision of personal details 
• Outline the functions of the main hardware elements of a computer including input, output and storage devices   
• Operate computer hardware by performing all required steps including connecting all required devices, and powering up and shutting down equipment appropriately
• Use a range a keyboard capabilities including text entry, numeric data entry, function keys, application keys, multifunction keys, symbols, cursor control, caps lock, and num lock
• Use a computer application to create a file by performing all required steps including accessing the application, entering data using the keyboard and mouse, printing the file, and storing the file appropriately for subsequent retrieval
• Apply relevant environmental impact reduction, health, safety and personal hygiene procedures when working in an ICT environment.

Internet

Going On-line with Internet and Email leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Internet Skills 3N0931

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to use internet applications to locate access and communicate information in a supervised
environment

Internet Skills QQI Level 3 – Anyone looking to attend this course will need to know some basic computer skills. The learner will attend the course for 2 hours per week. This course is ideal for anyone looking to use the internet to book tickets online, banking online, social media, TV players, learn to set up an email account( send and receive attachments) and internet security.

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline the significance of internet tools in terms of their common uses and features including web browsers and web mail
• Explain the rudimentary terminology associated with internet usage including uniform resource locator (URL), home page, hyperlinks, search engines, web mail, social networking, blogs, e-commerce, e-learning
• Outline the main information security, privacy, and applicable usage policy considerations associated using the internet
• Outline the basic requirements necessary to gain internet access including internet access devices, 1 wired and wireless connections, browsers, and internet service providers 5 6 7 8 9 Use a range of search techniques within an internet search engine to locate information efficiently
• Use the browser print function to obtain a hardcopy of information from the internet
• Use a web mail application to generate an e-mail taking all required steps to address the e-mail, enter a subject, enter text, and send the message
• Maintain a personal email account by checking, deleting, archiving, removing and restoring emails, and managing contacts list
• Navigate the web using browser toolbar buttons including back, forward, stop, refresh, home, favourites, and bookmarks
• Respond to a received e-mail by taking all necessary steps to open the message, read an attached file, compose a response using appropriate format, attach a new file, and transmit the reply.

Digital Media

Digital Media leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Digital Media 3N0552

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to use digital media devices to enhance their personal, social and economic well being.

Digital Media QQI level 3 – This course is for anyone who is interested in Social Networking Applications and also how to operate digital media devices in order to create digital media content ( digital video, social media applications and mobile technologies). The learner will attend the course for 2 hours per week.

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline the application of digital media devices in daily life including the digital communication of text, sound, and images
• Describe the key security considerations for digital communication including copyright law, workplace policies, and other applicable regulations
• Explain the concept of online social networking and its benefits
• Demonstrate the use of digital media devices to access and manipulate digital media and information from the Internet
• Operate a mobile phone using functions and settings to access, and exchange voice, text, video and photographic data 
• Create music play lists on a digital music device
• Record photographic images using a digital camera to capture, review, and transfer images to a computer
• Use software tools to copy, synchronize and play music on a digital media device
• Record video images using a digital video camera to shoot simple clips, and import clips to a computer for subsequent retrieval or processing
• Use an online social network to create and share digital media content and information.

Desktop Publishing with Microsoft Word

Desktop Publishing leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Desktop Publishing 3N0551

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to use desktop publishing software to produce a limited range of publications in supervised environment. 

Desktop Publishing QQI Level 3 – Anyone looking to attend this course will need to know some basic computer skills. The learner will attend the course for 2 hours per week. This course is ideal for anyone looking to learn more about Word Processing and how to use this programme.

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline the significance of using desktop publishing applications in terms of their common uses and features
• Explain rudimentary terminology associated with desktop publishing including, What you see is what you get (WYSIWYG) file formats, image formats, page layout, clip art, borders, text wrapping
• Explain common icons and related functions found for basic desktop publishing
• Plan the basic design and layout for a variety of publications to include sequencing of tasks, material and resources, timescale
• Use a desktop publishing application to access new and existing documents 
• Apply edit functions and formatting to publications to enhance the appearance of a publication to include inserting and manipulating images, graphics, text, borders, colour, and fonts
• Prepare a range of publications for hard or soft copy publication to include formatting, proofreading, and previewing layout
• Use a desktop application to create a file by performing all required steps including accessing the application, entering data using the keyboard and mouse, printing the file, and storing the file appropriately for subsequent retrieval
• Apply appropriate health, safety and personal hygiene procedures when working in an Information and Communications Technology environment.

Microsoft Word

Word Processing leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Word Processing 3N0588

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to use a word processing application to create a limited range of appropriately structured and accurate documents in a supervised environment. 

Word Processing QQI Level 3 – Anyone looking to attend this course will need to know some basic computer skills. The learner will attend the course for 2 hours per week. This course is ideal for anyone looking to learn more about Word Processing and its function:

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline the significance of using word processing applications in terms of their common uses and features
• Explain key terminology associated with word processing including page layouts, page setup, page breaks, text formats, object insertion, print preview, and toolbars
• Explain the toolbar icons and related functions associated with file handling and text formatting
• Use a word processing application to modify an existing document using a variety of file save options
• Create a range of documents for personal or work requirements
• Use a range of keyboard capabilities including text entry, numeric data entry, keyboard shortcuts, symbol insertion, cursor control, caps lock, and num lock
• Apply text formatting to include bullets, numbering, change case, apply bold, underline, italics, font, font size, font colour, and text and image alignment
• Use text editing features including copy, cut, paste, delete, and insert
• Use simple proofreading tools where available to perform grammar and spell checking
• Print a document to include print preview, spell and grammar check
• Use a word processing application to create a file by performing all required steps including accessing the application, setting up the page, entering data using the keyboard and mouse, formatting, printing and storing the file appropriately for subsequent retrieval.

Spreadsheets & Reporting

Spreadsheets leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Spreadsheets 3N0542

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skills and competencies to use spreadsheet applications to perform a range of simple calculations.

Spreadsheets QQI Level 3 – Anyone looking to attend this course will need to know some basic computer skills. The learner will attend the course for 2 hours per week. This course is ideal for anyone looking to learn more about Spreadsheets and their functions:

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline the significance of using spreadsheet applications in terms of their common uses and features
• Explain rudimentary terminology associated with spreadsheets including workbook, worksheet, cell, tab, formula, filtering, sorting, function, and chart
• Use a spreadsheet application to open an existing workbook, access a worksheet, print a hardcopy of the worksheet and exit the application
• Enter data to a spreadsheet to include formatting rows and columns, applying data formats, inserting and deleting rows columns and worksheets, and moving information within the worksheet
• Use formulae to perform simple calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
• Produce a hardcopy printout from a spreadsheet taking all required steps including creating a workbook, entering data into a worksheet, applying suitable formatting, previewing and printing the cell range, saving the workbook, and closing the spreadsheet application
• Apply appropriate health, safety and personal hygiene procedures when working in an ICT environment.

Database for the Workplace

Database leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Database 3N0550

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skills and competencies to use basic functions needed to use a database application.

Database QQI Level 3 – Anyone looking to attend this course will need to know some basic computer skills. The learner will attend the course for 2 hours per week. This course is ideal for anyone looking to learn more about Database and its function:

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline the significance of database applications in terms of their common uses and features
• Explain rudimentary terminology associated with databases including tables, records, fields, simple data types, forms, queries and reports
• Use a database application to open an existing database, access a report, print a hardcopy of the report and exit the application
• Use the search function of a database application to locate information within a database file
• Create a simple query on an existing database, storing the query for future access 
• Use the sort function within a database application to sort data in the order required
• Create a simple report on an existing database, printing the resultant output in hardcopy format, and storing the report for future access
• Create a simple form to populate a new database file with data Perform common record management tasks including adding a new record, modifying a record and deleting a record
• Produce a hardcopy database report taking all required steps including creating the database file, entering data, generating, saving and printing the report, and closing the database
• Apply appropriate health, safety and personal hygiene procedures when working in an ICT environment.

IT Skills

Everyday Computer Tasks Leading to QQI Level 4 Component:  Information Technology Skills 4N1125

Component Specification NFQ Level 4

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 4 Certificates in General Learning 4M2010

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to use applications in information technology. It is designed to develop skills in data entry, word processing, and using the internet.

IT Skills QQI Level 4 – This course is for anyone who has already completed a basic computer course and is looking to move forward with their IT training. The person will attend this course for 2 hours per week.  This course covers the following –

Microsoft Word

• Word Documents, how to edit, format, cut, copy, paste delete etc.

Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation

• Create presentations
• Enter text, images etc.

File Management

• How to organize your computer files and folders

Internet and Email

• How to use search engines, address bar
• Send/receive emails
• Add attachments

Information Technology

• Terminology used for computers and computing

Learning Outcomes:

• Explain a range of information technology concepts and terminology to include computer, computer hardware components, system and application software, input devices, output devices, data storage devices, bytes, files, folder/directory, drives, memory, LAN, WAN, and the internet
• Describe the impact of information technology on personal life and working or community life
• Manage files, folders or directories using a range of common file management features to include create, rename, delete, copy, move, locate and save to range of drives
• Use a data entry application to enter data using text, alpha, numeric and special characters to a minimum speed of 15 words per minute
• Access a word processing package to open a file, enter and edit text by inserting and deleting characters, words, sentences and paragraphs
• Format text using a range of format tools to include joining and splitting, line spacing, indentation, justifying and alignment
• Enhance text using a range of enhancement tools to include bold, underline, italicize, font and font size
• Edit a block of text using a range of editing tools to include move, copy and delete
• Navigate specific internet sites through a browser with specific links identified
• Use a range of functions in a webmail application to create, reply, cc, bcc, and add attachments to emails
• Manage a personal email account to include inbox, read/unread, deleted items, trash, drafts, and contacts/address book
• Produce an accurate hard copy of a 50-70 word document by proof reading, and using spell check, save, and print features
• Produce a hard copy of specific information located on the internet.

Computer Applications

Common Computer Applications Leading to QQI Level 4 Component: Computer Applications 4N1112

Component Specification NFQ Level 4

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 4 Certificates in General Learning 4M2010

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to use common generic computer applications. It is designed to develop skills in database, spreadsheets and computer graphics.

Computer Applications QQI Level 4 – This course is an advanced course, we would recommend each person completes IT Skills QQI Level 4 before progressing on to this course. The person will attend for 2 hours per week. This course covers the following –

Microsoft Access

• Terms for databases: tables, records, fields, data types, forms, queries and reports
• Create a database, table, open an existing database
• Create a query with/without criteria
• Sort function
• Add a new record, modify & delete a record
• Print/snip copies of Table, Query etc.
• Save and exit

Microsoft Excel

• Perform calculations
• Terms for spreadsheets: workbook, worksheet, cell, formula etc.
• Open an existing workbook & worksheet
• Enter data, apply formats, insert & delete, move data within the worksheet
• Use formulae to perform calculations + – x ÷, Average
• Print/snip, save the workbook, Exit

Microsoft Paint & Publisher

• Use Paint to create shapes, change colour, text etc.
• Use Publisher to make Flyers, Business Cards etc.

Learning Outcomes:

• Explain database and how database systems are used in organisations
• Describe the structure of a database
• Describe the structure of a spreadsheet Identify applications suitable for spreadsheets Identify applications suitable for graphics software
• Use the terminology appropriate to database software, spreadsheet software and graphics software accurately
• Use database software to create a database file to include enter and edit data, add new records, delete individual records, add new field to existing record and save
• Use spreadsheet software to create a spreadsheet to include enter and edit numeric and character data
• Modify a spreadsheet by inserting and deleting rows and columns, adjusting column widths and formatting column entries
• Use graphics software to create drawings to include clipart, colour, shape, size, text, enhance text
• Operate the database effectively by browsing, querying and sorting the database on a single field
• Apply a range of formulae and functions over a range of cells using relative cell references to include mathematical operators, SUM and AVERAGE functions
• Produce a hard copy of drawings modified using colour, shape and size.

Functional Maths Level 3

Mathematics leading to QQI Level 3 Component: Functional Mathematics 3N0930

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 5 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to recognise situations where mathematics can be used meaningfully in daily life, apply and transfer mathematical processes and concepts appropriate to the situation, interpret and draw conclusions from activity, and communicate conclusions appropriately to others. It is designed to develop skills which enable more effective functioning in personal life, the workplace and as a member of society. Achievement of this award reflects ability to complete tasks and processes under direction with limited autonomy. The course covers the following:

Functional Mathematics QQI Level 3 – This course is delivered over 2 hours per week and will take a total of 60 hours to complete. This course is ideal for anyone with children starting secondary school or anyone with a real interest in Maths. This course covers the following –

• Number

         + – x ÷, use calculator, fractions, decimals, %, ratio & estimation etc.

• Measurement and Capacity

         Area, Perimeter & Volume of 2D and 3D shapes, conversions mm to cm, Time,

        Distance & Speed etc.

• Algebra

         Terms, simplifying, substitution, solve linear & Simultaneous equations

Learning Outcomes:

Number, Measurement and Capacity:

• Describe the role and impact of number on daily life
• Describe the concepts of natural numbers (N), integers (Z), rational numbers (Q) and real numbers (R) 
• Describe the properties of addition and multiplication
• Describe the concept of number bases and their application in daily life
• Describe the concepts of part-whole, fractions, and decimals
• Demonstrate equivalence between simple fractions, decimals and percentages Express simple ratios as fractional ratios e.g. 1:2=1/3:2/3
• Calculate solutions to real life mathematical problems following the correct order of operations when applying the principal arithmetic operations, i.e. addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, to natural numbers (N), integers (Z), rational numbers (Q) and real numbers (R)
• Use a calculator to perform operations requiring functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percent, memory keys and the clear key
• Give approximations to real life mathematical problems by using strategies including estimation, significant figures and rounding off large natural numbers
• Solve routine problems from a limited range of meaningful, real life situations by making sense of the situations mathematically, making an initial model of the situation, deciding on appropriate mathematical techniques and tools to use in the situation, applying mathematical techniques, examining patterns, relationships and assumptions and making adjustments to see their effect on the initial model, and discussing and presenting results and conclusions in relation to the situation. 

Algebra:

• Describe the concept of algebra and its similarity to arithmetic
• Describe the properties of linear expressions, linear equalities and linear inequalities
• Write algebraic expressions for familiar real life situations
• Use language appropriate to algebra 
• Simplify basic algebraic expressions by applying the principal arithmetic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to algebraic expressions of one or two variables
• Solve simple algebraic equations and inequalities of 1 variable
• Transpose formulae and equations
• Solve simultaneous equations
• Solve routine problems from a limited range of meaningful, real life situations by making sense of the situations mathematically, making an initial model of the situation, deciding on appropriate mathematical techniques and tools to use in the situation, applying mathematical techniques, examining patterns, relationships and assumptions and making adjustments to see their effect on the initial model, and discussing and presenting results and conclusions in relation to the situation.

Functional Maths Level 4

Mathematics Leading to QQI Level 4 Component:  Functional Mathematics 4N2138

Component Specification NFQ Level 4

Credit Value: 5 credits towards the QQI Level 4 Certificates in General Learning 4M2010

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to recognise situations where mathematics can be used meaningfully in daily life, apply and transfer mathematical processes and concepts appropriate to the situation, interpret and draw conclusions from activity, and communicate conclusions appropriately to others. It is designed to develop skills which enable more effective functioning in personal life, the workplace and as a member of society. Achievement of this award reflects ability to complete tasks and processes independently under supervision. This course covers the following:

Functional Mathematics QQI Level 4 – This course is delivered over 4 hours per week and can take 120 hours to complete. This course covers the following –

Number:

Arithmetic

• Fractions, decimals, %, ratios, estimation
• Scientific notation
• Calculator :+ – x ÷ √ π etc.
• Laws of indices

Finance

• Interest, VAT,
• Compound interest, depreciation
• Wages

Area, Volume & Geometry

• Perimeter, Area, Volume, symmetry of shapes
• Construction of shapes and angles
• Pythagoras Theorem, Sin, Cos, Tan etc.

Algebra

• Solve: Linear equations & inequalities
• Solve Simultaneous equations
• Quadratic equations factors/ formula

Learning Outcomes:

• Explain how mathematics can be used to enable the individual function more effectively as a person and as a citizen
• Discuss the presence of variables in a range of real life situations
• Convert from scientific notation to standard form and standard form to scientific notation
• Use appropriate strategies including estimation and percentage error to give approximations, where numbers are from the set of natural numbers (N) and from the set of integers (Z)
• Use a calculator with confidence to perform extended calculations, requiring functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percent, squareroot, pi, 1/x, scientific notation keys, memory keys and the clear key, while following the conventions of precedence of operations
• Demonstrate an understanding of the laws of indices and the rules of logarithms by using the laws and rules to simplify expressions, solve equations, and transpose formulae
• Differentiate between simple interest and compound interest by applying the appropriate given formula to a range of savings and credit options
• Calculate pay slips using appropriate statutory deductions, gross profit, net profit and loss on goods sold, VAT inclusive and VAT exclusive prices Solve quadratic equations using factors and the quadratic formula
• Solve algebraic equations including linear equations and linear inequalities of one variable, simultaneous linear equations of two unknowns
• Construct algebraic expressions and formulae for real life situations using the correct terminology and including rearrangement of formulae
• Solve problems for a range of familiar and unfamiliar, meaningful, real life situations by mathematising the situations, making an initial model of the situation, deciding on appropriate mathematical techniques and tools to use in the situation, applying mathematical techniques, examining patterns, relationships and assumptions and making adjustments to see their effect on the initial model, and discussing and presenting results and conclusions in relation to the situation
• Discuss areas where additional mathematical skills could be developed to meet personal needs to enable a more active role in a community, educational or workplace setting. 

English Language QQI levels 3 & 4

Here in D8CEC we offer Elementary, Pre Intermediate and Intermediate level English to speakers of other languages. The learner will attend class of up to 6 hours per week. Each person registering will be asked to do an assessment with our English language tutor so we can evaluate the level of English needed. Our English Language classes run on our academic year of September to May.

Everyday English leading to QQI Level 3 Component: English as a Second Language 3N0870

Component Specification NFQ Level 3

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 3 Certificates in General Learning 3M0874

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to communicate at an introductory level in the target language, socially and in simple work-related tasks under supervision.

English as a Second Language QQI Level 3 – English to speakers of other languages. The learner will attend class of up to 6 hours per week.

Learning Outcomes:

• Display awareness of some basic features of the culture of the target country, to include commonplace greetings and social courtesies, and local customs
• Use introductory vocabulary, to include greetings, introductions, courtesies, basic personal information, numbers 1-100, time, simple directions, making purchases, food and drink
• Use sentence connectors, question words and simple grammatical constructions with correct pronunciation
• Exchange familiar information, to include personal details such as where they live, people they know and things they have, notions of time and quantity, space and location, lifestyle preferences and responsibilities
• Indicate a breakdown in communication, to include a signal of non-understanding, asking for repetition or slower speech, or ‘Do you speak English/ [name mother tongue]’ in the target language
• Read simple notices, signs and short pieces of text on familiar subjects, to include social and/or work related information Interact in a simple way in the target language, to include simple exchanges and use of basic phrases, ordering food and drink, and making familiar purchases.

English for Speakers of Other Languages leading to QQI Level 4 Component: English as a Second Language 4N1180

Component Specification NFQ Level 4

Credit Value: 10 credits towards the QQI Level 4 Certificates in General Learning 4M2010

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to communicate at a lower-intermediate level in English, socially and in work-related tasks while under supervision.

English as a Second Language QQI Level 4 – English to speakers of other languages. The learner will attend class of up to 6 hours per week.

Learning Outcomes:

• Display awareness of some of the key features of the society and culture of the target country, to include greetings and other courtesies, food and drink, and the infrastructure of daily life
• Use routine vocabulary, to include social and/or work related terms and topics
• Use the conventions of grammar and syntax to construct simple sentences and conversations
• Exchange information in a range of personal, social and/or work-related contexts, to include names, addresses, numbers, aspects of their background, immediate environment, and in matters of immediate need 
• Sustain conversations with others, to include greeting, taking leave and repairing a breakdown in communication by signaling non-understanding or asking for repetition, and making enquiries
• Read everyday information and instructions, to include signs, notices, advertisements, articles, brochures, a telephone directory, a menu, operating instructions for a ticket vending machine, a public telephone, fax machines, websites, email, mobile communications
• Write short, relatively simple pieces of text that are relevant to personal, social and/or work-related needs.

---

•