ICT Applied AS (Double)

Info. & Comm. Technology Applied A Level
ICT & IT
About the subject
GCE in Applied ICT awards are part of a new suite of vocationally-focused GCEs. These new awards incorporate an extremely wide range of AS and A2 Level units. These are flexibly structured to give candidates the opportunity to undertake qualifications which can be highly individual to their personal aptitudes, interests and ambitions. In ICT this means the option of choosing an award which is user focussed i.e. the Single Award or user and practitioner focussed, i.e. the Double Award.
At AS GCE Level, single (three units) and double (six units) awards are available.
At GCE Level, single (six units) and double (twelve units) awards are available. Grades are awarded from A - E for both single awards (i.e. the same as for non Applied GCEs) and AA - EE for both double awards.

Learning Styles
The course offers a student-centred approach to learning. Students will carry out a wide variety of practical work, undertake independent research, participate in discussions, produce multimedia productions and coursework in an e-portfolio format.
Students who prefer to demonstrate ability and expertise mostly through coursework and ongoing assessment should enjoy the structure of the course. Some units are externally set and assessed but this is of a practical nature.

Subject combinations and progression
ICT combines well with many other subjects and the choice will largely be determined by the longer term aim of the student. Those choosing a career in ICT will often study a business related course, although it combines well with most AS or A2 subject as well as GCSE retakes.
The GCE in Applied ICT gives students a wide choice of progression options into further study, training or relevant employment. Students who successfully complete the qualification will be well equipped to move onto degrees and BTEC Higher National Diplomas in related subjects such as ICT, Computer Science, Information Systems, Multimedia Software Engineering, Computer Networking, e-Business and Information Management.

Subject modules and assessment
The Double Award Applied Advanced GCE ICT is equivalent to two A levels. The following units are compulsory:
Unit 1 The Information Age
Unit 2 The Digital Economy
Unit 3 The Knowledge Worker (externally assessed)
Unit 4 System Design and Installation
Unit 5 Web Development
Unit 6 Technical Support
Unit 7 Using Database Software
Unit 8 Managing ICT Projects
Unit 9 Communications and Networks
There are a further 5 Optional Units of Study which include programming, multimedia, spreadsheet and web management. Each unit is assessed by one method; Units 3, 7 and 9 are externally set and marked; all other units are subject to the internal assessment of e-portfolio evidence.

Entry Requirements
C in Mathematics.