Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) IGCSE - A Home Study, Distance Learning Course

Coure review:

A distance learning course is the ideal way to gain a IGCSE in Information, Communication & Technology. Whether you're looking to go on to further education, improve your job prospects or expand your knowledge, distance learning IGCSE Information, Communication & Technology is a flexible and convenient course, which allows you to comprehensively prepare for an exam or career through home study. What's more, because the distance learning IGCSE Information, Communication & Technology course is a fully comprehensive course, no prior knowledge is required.

The aim of this qualification is to introduce students to ICT and its various applications in current society. Students will develop analytical and evaluative skills as well as skills relating to independent research of topics and these skills will allow students gain insight into a wide range of ICT applications and concepts.

The course will be of interest to those wishing to progress to GCE level studies in ICT related subjects. In addition the course may be of interest to those seeking to understand ICT and apply their knowledge to practical situations or use it for entry into higher level study.

Examination for this course is offered once a year in June

The course is presented over 5 units which mirror the specification and key examination questions. You must ensure that you can register with an examination centre that supports this course before registering, and you must have permanent access to a computer and printer in order to undertake the course

Course Key Topics

Unit 1: Hardware, software, memory and storage
Unit 2: Word processing, desk top publishing and spreadsheets
Unit 3: Databases, graphics and presentation software
Unit 4: Communications, networking and the internet
Unit 5: Applications and the examination

Home Study Tutor Support

Effective learning is encouraged through frequent activities and self-assessment questions, and there is guidance for the preparation of coursework.

You will be provided with comprehensive materials designed to provide you with everything required to complete your course of study. You will have your own personal tutor helping you with your course work and with any questions you may have. Plus you can contact a Student Advisors by email or phone for all the practical advice you may need – so we really are with you 100%.

You have a lot of resources to help you in your studies; your course blue file, your textbook, internet resources and your tutor. You should make good use of your tutor to help you with any difficulties that you may have during the course especially at the start and there is extra material in the student support portal.

Course Assessments

Self-Assessment Tests
Every lesson is concluded with either a Self-Assessment Test or a Tutor Marked Assignment. Only tackle these when you feel that you have fully mastered the material in the lesson. If it is a Self-Assessment Test, first try to check your answers by referring back to the lesson, and then compare your answers with those given right at the end of the lesson.

Tutor-Marked Assignments
Each unit has an associated extended tutor marked assignment (TMA) which will provide students with feedback on general strengths and weaknesses related to core topics, guidance and direction for improvement of performance.

Revision
Do not leave all your revision until the end of the course! You will need to revise thoroughly for your examination, but frequent revision throughout the course is essential. Plan your revision sensibly, and re-read as you feel necessary, if your knowledge is beginning to fade.

The last TMA in the course is a mock exam of two papers, following closely the format of the exam itself. You are recommended to study the online practice exam and mark scheme before attempting this TMA and sending it to your tutor. It is also a good idea to restrict yourself to the time specified for the exam, so you have practice writing under time pressure.