How to achieve IC3 Global Standard 3

There are three sections to the program structured around three individual examinations:

Computing Fundamentals

The Computing Fundamentals Examination deals with the key components of hardware, software, operating systems, and peripherals; it discusses problem resolution to help obtain optimal use of information technology.

OBJECTIVES

Hardware

To get the most out of computer technology, you need to know first what the existing technology is, how it works, and what components are compatible. This section examines the different computers available right now, their components and peripherals, including input-output devices such as printers, cameras, scanners and game controllers. You will also learn how to maintenance your computer equipment, protect hardware from theft or damage, and solve common hardware problems.

Software

Software transforms a computer into a powerful tool for creating, finding, organizing, and communicating. This sections examines how software and hardware operate together to perform computing tasks and how software is developed and updated. You will learn to identify different types of software and explore the fundamental concepts related to popular applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, databases, graphic and multimedia programs, and many others.

Operating system

A computer operating system controls the flow of information and performs most of the work. In this section, the operating system is explained, how it works and how to manage it. You will learn to manage windows, folders, files and links; to install, uninstall and run applications; and solve common problems. Also covered are the most popular operating systems (e.g., Windows, Macintosh OS, Linux, etc.) and their capabilities.

Key Applications

The Key Applications Examination covers the features in common among all applications such as popular word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications

OBJECTIVES

Common program features.

Today's programs have many features in common which helps you learn faster and get the most out of them. This section helps you understand those common functions, as well as ways to use different programs to perform common tasks. You will learn how to start and exit an application, modify interface elements, and use different sources of online help. You will also discover how to perform common functions for file management, editing and formatting and printing and outputting.

Word processing functions.

Modern word processors let you do more than create documents. They enable you to create live data, collaborate with others, and control access to valuable information. This section focuses on the elements of a well organized document, formatting text and documents, and using word-processing tools to automate processes such as document review, security, and cooperation.

Spreadsheet Features.

Using today's spreadsheets effectively allows you to capture, organize and display data from budget statistics for inventory and so on. You are also provided a wide range of formulas and functions which will automatically calculate, sort and process information. This section teaches you how to build and use a spreadsheet efficiently. Among other valuable skills, you will learn to sort and manipulate data using formulas and functions, create simple but effective charts, and to make conclusions based on tabular data and charts.

Communicating with presentation software.

In the past, presentation software was used only for a mass audience. Now, laptops, cheap projectors, and Internet technology have made presentation software a staple of modern communication around the world, in the classroom and at work. In this section, you will learn to design, manage and edit presentations and identify the different ways presentations are distributed.

Living Online

The Living Online examination covers skills for working on a web-based or networked environment and getting the maximum from your communication, education, collaboration and social interaction in a safe and ethical way.

OBJECTIVES

Network and web-based communications

The networks and computers turn the web into a powerful tool for searching, sharing and storing information worldwide.

This domain helps you identify the fundamentals of networks and the risks and benefits of network computing. This includes understanding the different types of network transmissions, the various types of data, the roles of customers and servers in a network, and the basic principles of security.

Electronic communication and collaboration.

Email, cell phones, blogs, teleconferencing, social networks, and other electronic communication tools connect billions of people instantly around the world. This section helps you identify different types of electronic communication and collaboration, how they work, and how to use them effectively. This includes understanding both the "rules of the road" for on-line communicating (e.g., "netiquette"), and common problems associated with electronic communication (e.g., delivery failure, spam, fraud, viruses, etc.).

Using the Internet and World Wide Web

The Internet is not just for entertainment, but it has become one of the principle ways of finding and sharing information, meeting friends, doing business, and even dealing with the government. In this section, you learn about the technology of the Internet, the World Wide Web and websites and how to use a web browser. Also you will learn how to evaluate the quality of information found on the Web and to distinguish responsible and ethical behaviors when creating or using online content.

The impact of the Internet on society.

Computers are becoming increasingly important in every aspect of life, including work, school, government, home and social interaction. This domain identifies how computers are used in various areas of life, the risks of using computer hardware and software, and how to use computers and the Internet safely, ethically, and legally.