AS and A level ICT

Course code: ITS

Level: A Level, AS Level

Availability: Day Course

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Summary

 

A level ICT is a challenging but exciting course which develops students’ understanding of the use of Information and Communications Technology and how it is constantly changing. The impact of ICT is vast and the study of A level ICT aids students in meeting the growing need from industry for individuals who can manipulate new technologies.

Requirements

 

You will need:

At least five GCSEs at grade C or above including  English Language and Maths. You will also need
an interest in studying the theory behind IT issues

because:

  • you will need to communicate effectively in exams and coursework
  • you will need to think logically to solve problems
  • you will need to think critically to demonstrate your understanding of ICT theory

Course Content

 

In Year 1 you will study units 1 and unit 2 to achieve the AS level. In Year 2 you will take units 3 and unit 4 to complete the full A level.

Unit 1:  Information: Systems and Applications

This unit counts as 60% of the AS level course. Topics include:

  • Data, information, knowledge and processing
  • Software and hardware components of an information system
  • Characteristics of standard and application software and application areas
  • Spreadsheet concepts
  • Relational database concepts
  • Application software used for presentation and communication of data
  • The role and impact of ICT – legal, moral and social issues

You will be assessed by a two hour examination in May.

Unit 2: Structured Task

This unit counts as 40% of the AS level course. Students apply their software application skills to design an IT solution to meet client requirements, develop a solution, test the solution and finally document it.
You will be ssessed by four practical tasks set by the exam board

Unit 3: ICT Systems: Application and Implications

This unit counts as 60% of the A level course. Topics include:

  • The system lifecycle
  • Information System design and implementation
  • Network and communication
  • Applications of ICT
  • The implications of ICT

You will be assessed by a two hour examination in June consisting of short and essay style questions.

Unit 4: ICT Project

This unit counts as 40% of the A level course. You will create and document a functional ICT system to meet a client’s requirements. 

You will be assessed by a coursework topic of your own choice.

What else do I need to know?

 

ICT students will study technology issues and must demonstrate their understanding of them. A level ICT is not a course for students who solely wish to learn how to use a personal computer but for those who have an interest in Information Technology, in addition to becoming discerning IT users.

A level ICT also encourages students to develop a capacity to think creatively, analytically, logically and critically.  The course has a strong problem-solving focus where students apply their skills, knowledge and understanding to solve complex problems covering a range of contexts. 

No prior knowledge of ICT is assumed but students who have studied a full GCSE in ICT will find the A level enhances and broadens their understanding and provides the opportunity for using a wider range of software applications. To succeed on A level ICT it will be necessary to spend an average of 3-4 hours on homework and independent study each week. Weekly workshops are offered to provide one-to-one support.

Written communication skills are vital for this course, so some students may be advised to attend study support on a regular basis for specialist help.

The course does not require you to own a PC as the college has facilities which may be used.  However, some students have found that having their own is helpful and it is useful if students have the same software as at college.

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