Full Time AS Level Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

AS Level Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Why should I study AS Level ICT?
ICT is one of those great subjects that lets you maximise your own strengths. If you turn out to have a technical interest in ICT, you could work for a bank or corporation helping to design systems which transfer information from a database to a terminal. But if you're more interested in the user interface, you could work in advertising or for a handset manufacturer. Information is everywhere, so ICT is a sound career move.

What will be studied on the course?
The two units are complementary and aim to develop students' ability to use ICT to solve problems, together with an understanding of the opportunities and impact of ICT in modern life. Students will be able to use a wide range of software and hardware to create solutions and develop their skills.

You will study two 'big picture' themes. First there's 'Practical problem solving', which introduces you to the various hardware and software technologies used in ICT, and how you can apply them to different applications in real life. The second theme is 'Living in the digital world', which gives you a solid grounding in ICT areas like transferring data, backups and the interface between people and ICT systems.

Topics studied are:

• data and information, and the need for their organisation and manipulation to facilitate effective use
• using ICT for a range of purposes
• social, cultural, legal, technical, ethical, economic and environmental considerations on the use of ICT
• ICT for individuals, organisations and society
• ICT systems (including hardware, software and communication)
• the development of high-quality ICT-related solutions to problems
• emerging technologies and ICT

You will also:

• investigate and analyse problems and produce a specification
• design effective solutions
• select and use appropriate application software
• test and implement an effective ICT-related system
• document specifications and solutions
• evaluate solutions and your own performance

When does the course start and how long does it last?
This is a one year course running from September to June.

What qualifications are needed to do the course?
A minimum of 5 GCSE's at grade A-C. No previous study of ICT is required.

Where is the course based?
The course is delivered at our Lanchester campus.

How will the learner be assessed?
You will sit two papers, one on each of the themes you've studied. Each paper accounts for 50% of your marks for the year.

How much will the course cost?
All equipment will be provided. Standard course books will be provided on an extended loan. Students who have access to a computer are more likely to get higher grades.

What progression routes are available?
This new specification has been designed to help students who wish to go on to higher education courses or employment where understanding how ICT can be used in society and business, and the implications of its use, will be a valuable asset.