ICDL

About ICDL ( International Computer Driving License):
The International Driving License (ICDL) is a global prgramme aiming of raising the general level of competence in IT in all sectors of the society and, therefore, promoting life-long E-learning. The programme's main objective is to establish a benchmark for basic computer skills giving the opportunity for the Arab population to effectively join the new information age and consequently leading to fulfilling the ultimate objective of computer illiteracy.
The ICDL concept is owned by the ICDL/ECDL Foundation, which is a nonprofit organization based in Dublin, Ireland. The Foundation was formed to coordinate the introduction and cooperation of the ICDL/ECDL Concept throughout the world through a network of Licensees .
The ICDL has become a widely recognized qualification in both personal and work-related computer use. The Programme is currently featured in over 120 countries worldwide and offered in more than 25 languages . In 2004, the number of registrants in the qualification exceeded the 4.6 million mar;, representing the delivery of over 15 million tests, and the number of certified accredited test centers has exceeded 17,000. In the Arab States ,UNESCO Cairo Office rolled the programme in 12 Arab States with more than 200,000 registrants , over 500 accredited centers , and more than 50,000 holders of the certification.

Benefits of ICDL:
The ICDL has countless benefits for its holders, organizations, and the society at large. To count a few : ICDL increases knowledge ,Improves jobs prospects and upgrades general IT skills. It also increase productivity , provides a benchmark for employee recruitment , promotion and retention, and measures training results . With ICDL , the IT skills gap may be reduced and new business opportunities created.

Obtaining the ICDL:
The ICDL is awarded upon completion of 7 modules ranging from essential concepts of IT, word-processing and spreadsheets to using E-mail and the internet. Through this modular structure, the ICDL provides a flexible learning approach.

The ICDL 7 Modules:
1. Basic concepts of Information Technology.
2. Using the Computer and Managing Files.
3. Word Processing
4. Spreadsheets
5. Database
6. Presentations
7. Information & Communication

The above Modules can be taken in any order and within the span of three years from the date of the first test. All modules ,except the first one are manifestations of practical skills. The tests are tasks-oriented and one typical of day-to-day computer operations.