BTEC IT Extended Diploma Level 3 Edexcel

BTEC IT Extended Diploma Level 3 Edexcel
Course Overview
Gain an in-depth knowledge of the computer industry as well as the academic and technical skills which you'll need for the advancement in today's high tech world.
Start Date
Duration
Venue

06 September 2010
2 Years
Westbank Campus, Skelmersdale

Who The Course is for
The course is ideal for those who are looking for training in up-to-date computer skills and want to study selected areas for today's computer industry. It's also good preparation for a degree or Foundation Degree course, and is equally suitable for those who wish to progress to a career in a computer-based environment.
Successful students tend to:
- have a good understanding of computer hardware and software
- be patient and persistent
- be good at working with their hands
- be able to work quickly and efficiently
- be interested in computer technology.
Course Content
Year 1
Principles of Computer Networks - Learners thinking of careers within network technical support or network management must have a good understanding of the underlying principles of networking and how data travels around networks. This unit starts by exploring the different types of networks and the standards relating to network systems, including local and wide area networks. Networks can be either wired or wireless systems and this unit does cover both.
- Computer Systems - Most IT practitioners will at some stage have to set up, use, customise and maintain a computer system or systems. In order to do so effectively they will need to understand the components that make up a computer system. The operating system interacts with the hardware components in order to make a functioning machine. This unit develops skills in hardware components and the operating systems.
- Communication Technologies " Communications technology includes a large range of devices, which are used in the business and social communities. Devices include many of the next generation wireless devices, games consoles and newer generations of mobile phones with voice and video streaming. This unit focuses on these communication technologies, examining their use within social and business communities.
- Organisational Systems Security- Ensuring the security of computer systems and, crucially, the information that is held on computer systems is vital. Organisations and customers require confidence in these matters and it is critical to the successful deployment and use of ICT. Security in this unit covers physical security of computer systems as well as software-based security using, for example, passwords, access rights and encryption.
- Network Management - This unit examines the principles of network management, which allows learners to understand the different functions and types of activities that network managers need to understand. In particular, learners need enough knowledge in order to make appropriate judgements when planning and designing a new network.
- Communication and Employability Skills for IT- This unit provides an opportunity for learners to understand the range of such non-technical soft skills and to appreciate what other skills and knowledge they will need to develop in order to be an effective employee. By the end of the unit, learners will have had opportunity to identify and consider their own set of skills and, where necessary, improve them.
- Information Systems " Organisations use combinations of software, hardware and communication networks used to collect, organise and distribute useful information. The availability of reliable information presented in an appropriate format is the basis for good decision making. It can be used by organisations for obtaining a competitive advantage and promoting efficiency. This unit covers these areas as well as exploring the formal ways that internal and external information flows can be represented.
- Computer Architecture - This unit explores the fundamentals of how computer systems work. The focus is on the technical detail including how the components function at an electronic level. Learners will examine the use of simple logic gates to create logic circuits and examine how these simple circuits can then be used. Machine and assembly code languages are investigated. Learners will have the opportunity to develop simple programs in a low-level language.
- Maintaining Computer Systems - Fast changes in information technology and its importance in running a successful business have led to a high demand in skilled practitioners who can maintain computer systems of different size and complexity. Learners will discover through this unit that the most important area of computer systems maintenance is the creation and regular use of scheduled activities (this is often called -housekeeping ). Housekeeping lists how often a range of maintenance activities occur, these activities may vary from simple cleaning to more difficult and important procedures such as making back ups of important data files.
Year 2
- IT Project -To successfully run a project and develop a product, system or service requires a complex integration of skills from across a wide field of expertise. The expertise required extends beyond the IT skills necessary to develop the product or system itself. It involves an understanding of the needs of the business and of such things as the associated systems and procedures, and job functions that need to be taken into account to ensure successful deployment. Learners will be able to identify an IT project from any area, however the project must have a business dimension and be sufficiently complex to allow planning and management to take place.
- Advanced Database Skills - Many jobs involve the use of databases and for this reason employees with database skills are valued. The advantages of using a database are extensive, including significantly reduced data storage requirements, improved record manipulation and faster access to records.
- IT Systems Analysis and Design - In this unit learners will gain an understanding of the principles and stages involved in systems analysis and the associated documentation involved in both the analysis and design stages. Learners will become familiar with a limited number of life cycle models and the associated terminology involved in the analysis and investigation of a system. Learners will develop detailed knowledge and understanding of different methodologies and their benefits and uses in particular situations.
- Installing and Upgrading Software - Virtually all modern systems and devices rely on a combination of hardware and software to work. In order for these systems to perform at their best, the software needs to be installed correctly and configured to ensure the system performs well and meets the needs of users. This unit gives learners the opportunity to install or upgrade software on systems. The role of software in controlling devices and systems needs to be understood, along with where the software is held and how it can be upgraded.
- IT Technical Support - The continuous development of technology and changing work patterns requires IT professionals to keep up to date with how to deal with technical problems and how to access and provide support where and when needed. In addition, organisations now seek to employ new mechanisms, systems and technologies and this changing organisational practice has had a direct impact on the individuals who provide this support. By completing this unit, learners will be able to use their technical knowledge to help clients to resolve technical problems and improve the performance of IT systems.
- IT Systems Troubleshooting and Repair - The ability to troubleshoot and repair IT systems for hardware and software faults is a valuable skill in IT support. Continuous development of IT systems requires technical support personnel to keep up to date with technical problems in order that they can identify faults quickly and repair as needed. By completing this unit learners will demonstrate their ability to utilise technical knowledge and expertise to resolve IT problems. Learners will cover theoretical and practical knowledge for diagnosing and troubleshooting computer hardware and software problems.
- Networked Systems Security - In this unit learners will build an understanding of the security issues that relate specifically to networked systems. This unit ensures that learners understand the security issues associated with networked systems and that they develop the appropriate skills and expertise to be effective in this area. The network security professional will consider general security issues and improvement of existing networked security systems.
- Impact of the Use of IT on Business Systems - This unit looks at how developments in IT, such as the widespread use of networks and the internet, have had an impact on organisations. The business environment has changed as a result of technology so that the border between local, national and global markets is fast disappearing. These concepts are investigated along with the purchasing of the technology itself and the expertise required to install and administer it.
Entry RequirementsLearning & Assessment Methods
Each module in the programme each will be assessed through a range of methods including assignments, projects, presentations and role-plays. Two of the units are externally set and assessed by Edexcel.
Qualifications Gained
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT (Edexcel)
Tutorial & Enrichment Studies
Progression Opportunities
If you would like to continue your studies, you could progress to Higher Education.
If you successfully complete a level 3 course at Skelmersdale & Ormskirk College you may be eligible to apply for an appropriate Foundation Degree at Skelmersdale & Ormskirk College (subject to satisfactory interview).
Career Opportunities
If you choose employment or training, the course prepares you for a job in careers such as: Computer operator/technician, User helpdesk assistant, Database designer, PC support, Business IT, Application development, Programmer, Website designer, Networker or Business Administrator.
Course Costs
If you are 16-18 years old you do not have to pay course tuition fees*.

If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course.
*exam and registration fees will be paid by the college subject to satisfactory attendance and course completion.