BCC Basic Student Technology Literacy Test Objectives

What skills does BCC’s Basic Student Technology Literacy Test cover?

BCC uses a version of the IC³ Training and Certification Program exam. The exam covers a broad range of computing knowledge and skills that proves competency in the areas described below. Students seeking to satisfy BCC’s Basic Student Technology Literacy Competency must demonstrate knowledge in the three exam areas: Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications, and Living Online.

Computing Fundamentals Competencies:

This exam covers the following areas:

Computer Hardware:
Identify types of computers, how they process information and how individual computers interact with other computing systems and devices
Identify the function of computer hardware components
Identify the factors that go into an individual or organizational decision on how to purchase computer equipment
Identify how to maintain computer equipment and solve common problems relating to computer hardware

Computer Software:
Identify how software and hardware work together to perform computing tasks and how software is developed and upgraded
Identify different types of software, general concepts relating to software categories, and the tasks to which each type of software is most suited or not suited
Identify fundamental concepts relating to database applications

Using an Operating System:
Identify what an operating system is and how it works, and solve common problems related to operating systems
Manipulate and control the Windows desktop, files and disks
Identify how to change system settings, install and remove software

Key Applications

This exam covers the following areas:

Common Program Functions:
Be able to start and exit a Windows application and utilize sources of online help
Identify common on-screen elements of Windows applications, change application settings and manage files within an application
Perform common editing and formatting functions
Perform common printing functions

Word Processing Functions:
Be able to format text and documents including the ability to use automatic formatting tools
Be able to insert, edit and format tables in a document

Spreadsheet Functions:
Be able to modify worksheet data and structure and format data in a worksheet
Be able to sort data, manipulate data using formulas and functions and add and modify charts in a worksheet

Presentation Software:
Be able to create and format simple presentations

Living Online

This exam covers the following areas:

Networks and the Internet:
Identify network fundamentals and the benefits and risks of network computing
Identify the relationship between computer networks, other communications networks (like the telephone network) and the Internet

Electronic Mail:
Identify how electronic mail works
Identify how to use an electronic mail application
Identify the appropriate use of e-mail and e-mail related "netiquette"

Using the Internet:
Identify different types of information sources on the Internet
Be able to use a Web browsing application
Be able to search the Internet for information

The Impact of Computing and the Internet on Society:
Identify how computers are used in different areas of work, school, and home
Identify the risks of using computer hardware and software
Identify how to use the Internet safely, legally, and responsibly