Full Time AS/ A2 Information and Communication Technology

Information and Communication Technology AS/A2

Entry Requirements
You must meet the college requirements for A Level study. However no previous qualification in IT is required, although a logical approach to problem-solving will be of benefit. This course cannot be taken in conjunction with Computing A Level.

Course content
AS: Year 1
Unit 1: Information, Systems and Applications
Data, information, knowledge and processing.
Software and hardware components of an information system.
Characteristics of standard applications software and application areas.
Spreadsheet concepts.
Relational database concepts.
Applications software used for presentation and communication of data.
The role and impact of ICT legal, moral and social issues.
Unit 2: Structured ICT Tasks
Design.
Software development.
Testing.
Documentation.
A2: Year 2
Unit 3: ICT Systems, Applications and Implications
The systems cycle.
Designing computer-based information systems.
Networks and communications.
Applications of ICT.
Implementing computer-based information systems.
Implications of ICT.
Unit 4: ICT Project
Definition, investigation and analysis.
Design.
Software development, testing and installation.
Documentation.
Evaluation.
What Skills Will I Develop?
The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically.
The skills to work collaboratively.
The ability to apply skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT in a range of contexts to solve problems.
An understanding of the consequences of using ICT on individuals, organisations and society and of social, legal, ethical and other considerations on the use of ICT.
An awareness of emerging technologies and an appreciation of the potential impact these may have on individuals, organisations and society.

What Could I Do Next?
Many IT-related degrees are available at universities and an A Level in ICT shows competence which could prove beneficial to any occupation using IT. ICT and Business Studies prove to be a popular combination and many students go on to study a joint IT & Business degree.

Are There Any Special Expenses?
Printing allowance will be given to each student which should cover the cost of printing coursework. Students are expected to pay for any additional printing. A memory stick is an advisable extra and can be purchased from the Colleges stationary shop.
A computer at home is not a necessity as ample time for the work and computer access are provided in lesson time. You will be offered the opportunity to go on trips to see computer systems in the real world and to take part in national competitions.