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How to improve your computer skills

Developing computer or information technology (IT) skills can help you access a range of resources and services, such as online banking or shopping.

If you want to progress to further learning, getting to grips with computers and the internet can also help you save time and give you access to lots of free online resources for your coursework and research.

Find a course to boost your computer skills

There are computing courses at all levels, for beginners and beyond. Many courses are flexible, so you can learn when you want and at your own pace.

Courses are often called IT or ICT (Information and Communications Technology). You can also do specific courses on topics such as using the internet or email, and learn to touch-type.

Use the National Careers Service course search to find computing and IT courses near you.

• National Careers Service course search Opens new window

Advice on courses to improve your computer skills

There’s plenty of help and advice available to help you find a computer course that suits you.

Get free advice on skills and courses through the National Careers Service. You can get advice online, over the phone or face-to-face.

• National Careers Service: 0800 100 900

• More on finding careers, learning and skills advice

• National Careers Service Opens new window

Qualifications in computing and IT

European Computer Driving Licence

The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is a qualification from the British Computer Society which is recognised internationally.

You can do the course in a learning centre or as a flexible distance learning course. It's made up of seven modules:

The Advanced ECDL course covers:

• Find out more about the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) from Next Step Opens new window

Computer Literacy And Information Technology (CLAIT)

The Computer Literacy and Information Technology (CLAIT) course is a nationally recognised qualification. It's available at three levels:

The course covers word processing, spreadsheets and databases. You can choose to take units individually, combine units to work towards a qualification, or do a combination of units to suit your needs.

Computer tips and internet access – UK online centres

You can pick up tips on using a computer at your UK online centre. Staff can give you guidance on anything from using a mouse and a keyboard to taking part in an online auction.

UK online centres can also be a good place to do a computer course: there’s always plenty of advice on hand.

In addition, UK online centres provide free or low-cost internet access. It’s also worth checking whether you can get free internet access at your local library.

• Find your nearest UK online centre Opens new window

• Book internet access at your local library Opens new window

Looking to help someone get started online?

UK online centres are also a great place for complete beginners to get started online. In most cases, it’s completely free.

Millions of people are still missing out on the benefits of the internet. If you have a friend or family member who needs support getting started, follow the link below to find out how your local UK online centre can help.

• UK online centres Opens new window

More ideas on improving your IT skills from the BBC

The BBC website can help you learn more about IT, from using the internet and email to avoiding computer viruses.

• More ideas on how to improve your IT skills Opens new window

More useful links

• Skills for Life qualifications

• Improving your skills: getting started

Useful contacts