Computers are continually transforming the way in which we learn, communicate, do business, enjoy our leisure time and live our everyday lives. Whatever career you pursue in the future, a knowledge of computer skills and concepts is likely to be beneficial or even essential. At present, you are 8 times more likely to be recruited into the ICT/Computing industry than any other sector.

This course aims to make you competent and confident in the use of computers and focuses on giving the student an understanding of the uses and impact of computers in society today.

This specification gives students opportunities to:

• develop knowledge, understanding and skills to meet human need in a broad range of activities;

• develop awareness of the management of resources to meet an identified human need in a diverse and ever-changing society, including values issues;

• take account of rapid technological changes and the growth of scientific knowledge and understanding;

• critically evaluate evidence to justify informed decisions;

• use information and communication technology (ICT) where appropriate;

• develop innovative, creative and original ideas through active investigations; • make use of their wider knowledge and understanding. T

he AS builds on but does not depend upon the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through GCSE ICT.

ICT MODULES

AS 1 Components of ICT

2 hour external paper - 50% of the total AS Mark (25% of the total A-Level Mark)

AS 2 Developing ICT Solutions

• A Data Processing Task

• A Multimedia Task Internal Assessment (Coursework) 50% of the total AS Mark (25% of the total A-Level Mark)

A2 1 Information Systems

2 hour external paper 50% of the total A2 Mark (25% of the total A-Level Mark)

A2 2 Uses of Information Systems

Internal Assessment of a Project (Coursework) 50% of the total A2-Level Mark (25% of the total A-Level Mark)

This specification takes into consideration the students’ opportunities for progression to:

• Career paths that lead to professional ICT management and responsible use of ICT in industry.

• People-orientated and socially aware fields of study.

• Career paths that relate to the responsible use of ICT involving the management of people.

• Specialist academic study of IT/computer systems.

• Advanced study of modern technology-based systems.

Entry Requirements

• There is no specific requirement to have studied GCSE ICT/Computing although it is an advantage.

• It is expected that those students already holding a GCSE (short/full course) in either subject will have obtained a B Grade or better.

• To be admitted to this course, students must have displayed a commitment to his/her studies and a willingness to learn.