A level ICT

ICT

Why should I study ICT?
Information Communication Technology (ICT) encompasses all forms of technology used to create, store, exchange and use information. It is a modern and dynamic subject with many interesting elements. It focuses on the design and application of systems to solve real problems using specialist software and the theory involved in the design of ICT systems. The course is demanding but rewarding if you enjoy analysis and problem-solving.

What will I study?
AS Units
Unit 1
: Information, Systems and Applications - Exam

Data, information, knowledge and processing Software and hardware components of an IT system Spreadsheet concepts Relational database concepts Applications software Role and impact of ICT â€" legal, moral & social issues

Unit 2:
Structured ICT Tasks â€" Coursework

You will have the opportunity to explore design, software development, testing and documentation in a range of practical tasks.

A2 Units
Unit 3:
ICT Systems, Applications and Implications â€" Exam

Systems life cycle Designing computer-based information systems Networks ad communication Applications of ICT Implementing IT systems and implications of ICT

Unit 4:
ICT Project â€" Coursework

Analysis Design Software development Testing and implementation Documentation Evaluation

What skills do I need?
If you have not studied ICT at GCSE Level you should have a keen interest in the subject.

Practical work concentrates on the skills of:

• Being able to identify an information technology solution to a problem
• Selecting and applying the appropriate information technology tools
• Testing against appropriate criteria and evaluating the effectiveness of such a solution.
• Mathematical skills are also required to varying degrees in the design and implementation of the software solutions.

How will I be taught?
ICT is taught by one teacher for each group and lessons are split between practical lessons and theory lessons.

How is the course assessed?
There are 2 units in each year, both AS and A2 involve 1 written examination and 1 coursework unit.

What will this course prepare me for?
You can progress to an IT related course in higher education; ICT also offers the opportunity to acquire skills that are useful in most areas of employment or other higher education courses.

ICT is also a key component of all teacher-training courses.

Private Study
As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each and GCSE subjects 2 hrs each.

What materials will I need to purchase?
You will benefit greatly from having Microsoft Office at home. Student licences can be purchased privately at a cost of approx £45 from