A/AS ICT

A/AS ICT

What is ICT?
ICT is about understanding and using computers to carry out tasks. Computers now have a real effect on our lives and have changed the way we complete business, communicate, spend our leisure time and learn. You will study how computers are used to carry out tasks in all areas of the modern world. The emphasis will be on software use rather than the hardware and programming of computers. Some of the questions that you may be asked are:

• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the use of ICT?
• What is a Management Information System?
• How can ICT be used to simplify complex tasks?

Is ICT suitable for me?
Current students have valued the opportunity that this course provides to develop any existing ICT skills that they may already have. Students have also enjoyed the challenge of applying the practical skills that they have acquired to help make decisions and solve problems within a selection of real world scenarios.

How will I learn?
Some lessons will identify and then build upon your ICT skills, before using these practical techniques to investigate problems and then produce advanced ICT based solutions. There will also be theoretical lessons which will involve the discussion and research of a topic directly related to the use and affects of ICT in the 21st century.

Homework will be set each week and is likely to require approximately four to five hours of private study. This may include the further investigation of theoretical topics or some independent work to develop ICT practical skills.

How will I be assessed?
Coursework: AS - 0%; A2 - 40% of A2 level ( 20% of A level)

A level ICT comprises four units overall, two in each year. In the first year at AS student take units 1 and 2. You will also start some initial research for your second year coursework.

Unit 1 - Practical Problem Solving in the Digital World
Exam: 1½ hours, 50% of total AS, 25% of total A level

Unit 2 - Living in the Digital World
Exam: 1½ hours, 50% of total AS, 25% of total A level

Unit 3 - The Use of ICT in the Digital World
Exam: 2 hours, 30% of total A level

Unit 4 -Practical Issues involved in the Use of ICT in the Digital World
Coursework: 20% of total A level

Progression
ICT skills will help you in any future career and people with an understanding of ICT often discover many employment opportunities in a wide range of fields.

Many students select ICT to support their other subjects whilst others choose it as a specialist subject. ICT can also be combined at degree level with many other courses.

Jack studied A Level ICT along with A Levels in Geography and English Literature. He has gone to Oxford University to study Geography and ICT.

Alex studied Business and ICT at A Level. He has selected a course in Business Management and ICT at university.

Course costs
All students will be expected to provide their own textbooks, stationery, computer disks and calculators (where applicable).

Estimated costs: Textbook: £15

If the cost of equipment, materials and trips may cause you financial hardship, there is the opportunity to apply for help from the College Access Fund.

Course: AQA 1521/2521

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