Applied Information Communication Technology

Applied Information Communication Technology

Entry Requirements
A grade C in GCSE English is preferred as well as level 2 skills in numeracy, a merit at Intermediate GNVQ ICT, or a grade C or above at GCSE ICT (or Business Communications Systems) is also required. Alternatively a pass in CLAIT Plus or a B in short course GCSE ICT is acceptable.

About the Course

This award suits students who prefer a more practically based approach to ICT. Portfolio work provides the majority of the assessment, with one externally assessed examination in the first year. It is a student centred approach to learning, which gives the opportunity for the student to apply their knowledge of the application of information and communication technology principles in a practical way. This course requires the ability to produce quality portfolio work to tight deadlines. The Applied ICT course leads to an award from OCR. The units for the Applied ICT are:

Unit 1 (AS) Using ICT to communicate
You will plan, design and create 6 documents to suit a range of purposes, technologies and communication styles, using a variety of software packages. You will also create a report comparing documents used in business.

Unit 2 (AS) How Organisations Use ICT
This is an examined unit in which you will investigate how organisations are structured, how information is used and how ICT supports businesses and offers new opportunities. You will investigate working practices and the legislation that affects ICT users. This exam is based on a case study and uses materials prepared in advance.

Unit 3 (AS) ICT solutions for individuals and society
This is a research unit that will enable you to produce a presentation based on the results of an investigation, using spreadsheet, database and internet software. It will enable you to develop the skills required to source data and investigate the methods available to present and find relevant information, based on a chosen theme.

Unit 9 (A2) Working to a brief
This unit will enable you to develop an insight into Project Management and the skills required, using specialist software. You will develop a report into your working practices and how you manage a set task. The focus of this unit is set by OCR and will give a range of options on how you develop the theme of the unit. This will be externally moderated as a portfolio option.

Unit 10 (A2) Numerical Modelling Using Spreadsheets
You will design and implement a spreadsheet solution to a problem, using the skills you will have developed. This will involve designing, creating and documenting a solution to a problem, suitable for a real user.

Unit 12 (A2) Publishing
You will investigate, design and create a professional, camera-ready copy document of at least 10 pages to a client brief. This will involve finding a 'client' and creating a brochure of a professional standard suitable for publishing, as well as liaising with businesses and individuals in the community.