Key Stage 5

Qualification

AQA - 'AS' Level and 'A' (AS + A2) Level

In the first year students will study for assessment in three modules for the 'AS' level:

• Information - Nature, Role and Context (1.1/2 hr exam):
  Data, information and knowledge, the value and nature of each. The capabilities and limitations of information and communications technology, and the social impact of its use. The legal framework surrounding ICT - Computer Misuse Act, Data Protection Act and Health and Safety issue.
• Information - Management and Manipulation (1.1/2 hr exam):
  Data - its capture, its validation and verification, its security, and its storage. Software - the capabilities and limitations of operating systems, human interfaces and generic applications. Hardware - capabilities and limitations, network environments.
• The Use of Generic Application Software for a Task Solution (Coursework):
  Students are expected to solve a problem using the advanced features of a single application.

In the second year students will study a further three modules for the A2 level:

• Information Systems within Organisations (Exam):
  Organisational structures and the management of changes within them. The development and management of information systems, and the impact of legislation and codes of conduct. The project life cycle and management of project teams. User Support.
• Information - Policy, Strategy and Systems (Exam):
  The development of information policies and the opportunities for strategic planning. Software - evaluation, development, reliability, upgradability and its effect on information stability and portability. Hardware - human computer interfaces, data networks and protocols.
• Use of Information Systems for Problem Solving (Coursework):
  Students are expected to develop a solution to a problem for a 'real' person in a 'real' situation.

Course Length

'A' (AS + A2) Level 2 years.'AS' level 1 year

Entry Requirements

It is not necessary to have studied this subject to GCSE level.

It is preferable, but not essential, that students have a GCSE pass in English and Maths showing a good grounding in analytical and logical skills.

Course Delivery

The course is taught through mainly practical experience. Problems will be set and then tackled on an individual or cooperative basis. The theoretical work is covered with the aid of a text by formal tuition, discussion and essay research work.

Coursework is done by students on an individual basis.

Assessment Method

All courses are assessed in modules. The first three modules lead to an AS qualification, which must be done before proceeding to the next three modules, A2, leading to a full A level.

Modules can be assessed in January and June of each year, and modules could be re-taken or re-submitted once.

Progression from the course

The course provides opportunities for students to develop basic computing and advanced ICT skills needed to enable them to analyse problems and then develop and implement ICT based solutions in many different areas relevant to today's business, industry and commerce.

It provides a good addition to any other AS, A or GNVQ course leading to a career in any field.