AS and A2 level Computing

AS and A2 level Computing

Do you enjoy using computers? Are you interested in learning about computer applications? Do you like solving problems? If your answer to any of the above is â€-yes†, you should enjoy studying Computing at Advanced Level.

WHAT WILL I BE STUDYING ON THE COURSE?
The course covers all aspects of computing and these include hardware, networks, software and programming. You will learn about the methods used by analysts and designers, and how to implement and test software. You will investigate a variety of commercial, industrial, scientific and other applications, learn about how computers communicate and operate, and how to construct databases in Microsoft Access. You will also practise these techniques by constructing a professional software solution for a real company.

WHAT WILL I BE DOING IN LESSONS?
You will spend a significant amount of time using computers in some way â€" programming in Access or Visual Basic or using a number of packages including Microsoft Office.
Networked computers are available in the Computing rooms, in the Learning Resource Centre and throughout the College. You will have a machine to yourself for practical work throughout the course.
You will not need a computer at home as computers are always available in College for you to use. However, if you do have a computer at home, you can use it to prepare program documentation or other work.

HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED?
The AS has one exam paper and one piece of coursework based on a practical computer project. The project that you do is specified by the examination board and we teach you the skills to tackle it.
The A2 course has one exam. There is also a coursework unit, again based upon a project, completed by you. This normally involves using Access and Visual Basic to create a brand new system for a real life customer. This project work is often the most challenging part of the course, and also the most rewarding.

WHAT IF I HAVEN†T STUDIED GCSE COMPUTING OR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY?
Don†t worry! Many of our students have not had the opportunity to take an examination course in Computing or Information Technology before. Provided you are willing to put in the time and effort you will not be at any disadvantage.

WHAT OTHER SUBJECTS COULD I DO WITH COMPUTING?
Traditionally Computing has often been combined very successfully with a science or Mathematics. However in the modern computer industry people come from all sorts of backgrounds very often not remotely mathematical. Communication skills are often as important as a logical mind.

AND AFTER THE COURSE?
You can go on to Higher Education, or perhaps get a job in the computing industry. Computer courses range from Computer Science, for which A level Maths may be needed, to Computing or Computer Studies with usually just a GCSE Maths requirement. Whatever your future in today†s technological world, Computing is a worthwhile qualification to have.

Requirement
To study Computing at Advanced level, you must have achieved four GCSEs at grade C or above including English (language) and Mathematics. Previous computing experience should include some use of Microsoft Windows and a word processing package. If you have no computer experience you will need to have good reasons for wanting to study computing and the motivation to successfully take on the challenge.