KS5 COURSE OVERVIEW

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: MRS V OTHICK

Course Content and Assessment

The specification aims to develop:

A. Problem solving skills through the practical application of information technology
B. The ability to analyse, appraise and make critical judgements about the use of information and communications, systems technology
C. Interpersonal skills necessary for communicating with others
D. An understanding of the nature of information, its structure, application and implications of its use
E. An awareness of the role of information technology in the management and dissemination of information
F. A broad balanced view of the range of applications and information systems, and an understanding of their capabilities and limitations, and the implications for their use
G. An understanding of the role of people, technology and systems in organisations
H. An awareness of the economic, social and ethical implications of the use of information technology systems.

Outline

The syllabus is organised into two parts Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced Level (AS+A2). To qualify for an AS level the assessment units 1, 2 and 3 must be passed. To gain an A level assessment units 1, 2 and 3 together with units 4,5 and 6 must be passed. This arrangement allows the flexibility to accommodate both a modular and linear approach. The contents are as follows:

AS Modules

Module 1 Information: Nature, Role and Context
Module 2 Information: Management and Manipulation
Module 3 Coursework: The use of generic application software for task solution.

A2 Modules

Module 4 Information Systems Within Organisations
Module 5 Information: Policy, Strategy and Systems
Module 6 Coursework: The Use Of Information Systems for Problem Solving

Candidates for AS level will attempt:

Unit 1 Written Paper 30% 1¾ hours
Unit 2 Written Paper 30% 1¾ hours
Unit 3 Coursework 40%

Candidates for A level will attempt:

Unit 1 Written Paper 15% 1¾ hours
Unit 2 Written Paper 15% 1¾ hours
Unit 3 Coursework 20% (minor project)
Unit 4 Written Paper 15% 2 hours
Unit 5 Written Paper 15% 2 hours
Unit 6 Coursework 20% (major project)

Higher Education and Careers

The course offers a good general grounding for those wishing to study any aspect of Information Technology in higher education or follow a higher vocational course. For those intending to enter the world of work, the course lays down an excellent foundation for exploiting and developing the use of IT in the work place. The course would then be advantageous to those seeking employment in a wide range of careers.

Entry Requirements

The specification has been developed to enable those students who have studied GCSE Information and Communications Technology or Key Skills ICT to continue their study at a higher level. Those wishing to do so will normally be expected to have achieved a grade A or B at GCSE or gained a good pass at Key Skills.