Ampleforth College

10 January 2009

GCE Applied ICT

ICT is concerned with the appropriate use of a whole variety of hardware and software tools to capture, process, store and present data. The department offers one of the new broad based qualifications (Applied ICT - OCR Specification) at both AS and A2

Course Aims

  • to develop a broad range of practical ICT skills along with knowledge in and understanding of the effective use of ICT within a range of organisations
  • to develop an understanding of the impact of Information Systems on organisations’ personnel, policies and practices
  • to develop methods to analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate solutions to meet the needs of an end user
  • to develop project and time management skills

 

Entry Requirements

No prior knowledge is required for this course although basic numeracy, literacy and ICT skills are particularly relevant, with a minimum of C grades in Mathematics and English at GCSE. A computer is essential for this course and should preferably have Microsoft Office with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access.

The AS Course

Candidates study three mandatory units:

  • Using ICT to Communicate
  • How Organisations use ICT
  • ICT Solutions for Individuals and Society

Using ICT to Communicate and ICT Solutions for Individuals and Society are assessed by means of a practical Portfolio whereas How Organisations use ICT is externally assessed via an Examination in the summer (for which previously prepared notes and diagrams of a pre-set Case Study will be used).

Both learning and much of the assessment are practical with students being expected to work in their own time. Some of the tasks contain a vocational element and there will be the opportunity to visit a variety of local organisation

The A2 Course

Candidates study three more units (again of equal weighting): -

  • Developing and Creating Web Sites
  • Working to a Brief
  • Numerical Modelling Using Spreadsheets

Developing and Creating Web Sites and Numerical Modelling Using Spreadsheets are assessed by means of a practical Portfolio whereas Working to a Brief is externally assessed via an Examination in the summer (for which previously prepared notes and diagrams of a pre-set Case Study will be used).

Student Viewpoint

Many students comment that there is a noticeable step up in the volume of work required for A Level especially on a practical, vocational course such as this. In particular they have identified certain factors which contribute to successful progress -

  • complete all of the tasks as required
  • stick to the deadlines (even when the work seems difficult)
  • be prepared to explore the software and try out new features for oneself
  • be enthusiastic – read around the subject and take an interest in how ICT is practically used in the world around you 

 

Complementary Subjects

Applied ICT complements many other subjects. So students taking two or three A levels in Business Studies, Economics, Geography, Science, Mathematics, English, Art or Design and Technology can all make use of the transferable skills learnt.

Implications for Career and University Choices

Applied ICT prepares students for a variety of degree level courses in ICT or Computer Science.

Further information may be obtained from the ICT department