The IoT module introduces the Internet of Things, which extends Internet connectivity from computers and related devices to other physical devices or common objects and leverages from technologies such as embedded systems, wireless sensors, and automation. Over the last few years, there has been an explosion in the scale of the Internet of Things. Homes, offices, factories and entire cities are being made “smart” by the proliferation of Internet-connected devices. Some estimates suggest that the number of connected IoT devices will reach 41.6 billion by 2025. Organisations and societies are only now starting to grasp the potential and implications of this trend. This module is suitable for a wide range of candidates; for example, non-technical professionals who wish to build and demonstrate an understanding of IoT, facilitating engagement with their technical colleagues or their suppliers, or students who wish to add general technical knowledge to sector-specific or general studies.

The Artificial Intelligence module introduces the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) – the intelligence demonstrated by a machine when it perceives its environment and takes actions that maximise the likelihood of achieving specific goals. By deploying the right AI technology, businesses and organisations can save time and money and can innovate by automating routine processes and tasks, increasing productivity and operational efficiencies and making faster business decisions based on outputs from cognitive technologies. This module is suitable for a wide range of candidates; for example, non-technical professionals who wish to build and demonstrate an understanding of Artificial Intelligence, facilitating engagement with their technical colleagues or their suppliers, or students who wish to add general technical knowledge to sector-specific or general studies.

The 3D Design module covers the main concepts and skills needed to create three-dimensional drawings using computer-aided design (CAD). This module develops the knowledge and skills to use 3D design software for tasks such as manipulating objects and rendering photo-realistic graphics using lights, textures, and backgrounds. This module is suitable for students, designers, engineers, architects, technical staff, and people who want to build on their 2D CAD skills by exploring the potential of 3D modelling. CAD is used extensively in a wide range of industries.

The 2D Design module covers the main concepts and skills needed to create two-dimensional drawings, change object properties, and print or plot outputs. Computer-aided design (CAD) is used extensively in a wide range of industries. CAD skills are in demand in digital sectors, although with CAD applications even non-technical professionals can create complex 2D designs and concepts. This module is suitable for students and working professionals in fields related to the architectural, engineering, and construction sectors. It would also be of value to designers in areas such as product development, gaming, and technology.

The Image Editing module covers the main concepts and skills needed to use and work with images. This modules develops good practice when creating, editing, and outputting digital images. Whether communicating with one person or a million people, images are a useful way to convey facts, concepts, and emotions. Being able to use images to enhance presentations, reports, and documents increases their impact and improves people’s engagement with the information contained. It is an important skill that complements many other ICDL modules. This module is suitable for a wide range of candidates, from students and academics to entrepreneurs and workers, as well as people interested in creative activities.

The Web Editing module sets out key web publishing concepts and the skills required to create, upload, and maintain a web site. It also covers important issues such as security and copyright. Thanks to the internet, it’s never been easier to communicate with a worldwide audience. Websites are crucial for virtual interactions, from selling products or services to sharing ideas or knowledge. Having the skills to set up a website and use web authoring software to maintain and update it are highly valuable in a competitive work environment. Websites are a common tool of businesses, organisations, and communities. This makes the Web Editing module suitable for a wide range of candidates, including employees, volunteers, students, graduates, and bloggers.

The Documents (Advanced) module covers the concepts and skills needed to produce complex documents. It looks at areas such as creating long reports, formatting documents so they are attractive and easy to read, structuring information and creating templates, as well as improving productivity. Employers expect professional workers to be able to produce complex written documents that communicate effectively no matter the topic. Word processing software has become very sophisticated, so it is vital to have the skills that take advantage of the features available to produce well-structured and attractive documents efficiently. This module is suitable for a wide range of candidates who want to go beyond basic word processing skills and produce sophisticated documents. The skills developed in this module are applicable in any work or academic setting. Candidates will also see an improvement in productivity and learn to collaborate with others on documents.

The Presentations (Advanced) module covers the advanced skills needed to plan and create effective presentations, manage and protect presentations, as well as the technical considerations of giving presentations. Presentations are helpful in a wide range of business settings and are now a standard communication tool. At the same time, how information is presented has a big impact on how well that information is understood. Workers need to be able to communicate complex information in ways that suit different types of audience and for different purposes. This module is suitable for a wide range of candidates; for example, employees who need to share knowledge with others, entrepreneurs pitching for support or investment, business people selling a product or service, or academics presenting research findings or new projects.

The Databases (advanced) module sets out key database concepts and covers the use of a relational database application to create an advanced database structure and outputs. The Advanced Database module covers the tools available in database applications to better manage and organise structured information. Effective use of these tools to manage and analyse high volumes of data can produce the quantity and quality of information that business today demands.

The Databases module sets out essential concepts and skills relating to understanding the concept of a database and demonstrating competence in using a database application. Understanding the structure of a database and being able to carry out common tasks using a standalone database is an important competence for those who deal with large sets of data. The Using Databases module covers the definition of a database and how it is organised, table creation and linking, as well as filters, queries, forms and reports.

The Coding Principles module covers the main concepts and skills needed to use code and computational thinking. It helps develop the skills used to create simple computer programmes. Computational thinking is used in many job roles, not just programme and software development. Coding is becoming the new standard of literacy, with skills used in roles as varied as art and design, engineering, data analysis, and science. Computing develops related skills such as problem- solving, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms. This module is suitable for a wide range of candidates, including students and those who would like to develop their IT skills. Computer science is a broad field and its applications continue to grow.

The Data Analytics module covers the main concepts and skills needed to analyse statistics, prepare data sets, summarise data, and create data visualisations. As technology is used more and more for everyday activities such as sales, production, logistics, and customer services, organisation are generating large sets of data which can be a valuable resource if evaluated correctly. This module is suitable for entrepreneurs, managers, or workers who need practical skills in data analysis so that they can deliver business intelligence and insights.