A2 ICT

AS/A2 ICT

WJEC (1-2 years)

Course Content

There are two sections, A and B. For Section A, you will cover a range of ICT related topics. Networks, Databases and data capture will form a common element looking at the more technical aspects of the course. You will also look at social issues, legislation and the concept of information processing and management. Each topic is related to the whole area of the ICT field moving away from the more technical areas (which are more associated with a Computing course).

For Section B you will learn spreadsheet skills using Microsoft Excel, to apply to a real life business problem. The evidence for your solution will be taken into the exam where you will answer questions on the skills demonstrated. This exam will contribute to 60% of the course.

For the coursework you will develop skills in DTP and multimedia activities. The focus will be on developing presentational material for a given case study. You will design and evaluate the final documentation. The coursework is worth 40%.

In the A2 course you will build upon these topics with an emphasis on the business and management side of ICT. The coursework will focus on developing a database application and producing extensive system documentation covering areas such as analysis, design and testing.

Methods of Teaching

Half of your class time will be spent in a well equipped computing room where you work at your own pace, developing and documenting DTP and multimedia material, and working on spreadsheet skills for your coursework. The other half will be spent in a theory room looking at the examined topics of the course.

In theory your progress will be assessed through a series of topic tests and homework. For practical lessons you will be expected to hand in material for the coursework and in prep for the written exam.

Methods and Patterns of Assessment

The AS course will be assessed by one 2hr 15 minute exam at the end of the first year together with the coursework submission.

The A2 examination will consist of one 2hr 30 minute exam taken at the end of the second year together with a major practical project in databases.

Theory topics include:

- Networks

- The Internet

- Working with ICT

- Security

- Databases and Information Systems

- The System Development Life Cycle

With a pass in AS ICT you can claim a proxy for the level 3 Key Skills IT exam.

With a pass at A level you will be able to claim full exemption for the whole IT Key Skills Level 3 award.

Financial Implications

If you have a computer at home you may wish to purchase a copy of Borland Delphi to help in practising your programming skills. You can purchase this at a student discount price It is also recommended that you buy a text book at approx £15, although there are copies on loan from the Learning Resources Centre.

The College has a Student Support Fund for those students who have difficulty meeting these costs.

Career Possibilities

The course provides an excellent foundation for any computing and ICT related course. Many students have moved on to a degree in Computing Science, Software Engineering, Networks, Web Design and Multimedia related careers. It will also provide a sound programming knowledge which is a basic component of any ICT/Computing related course.